Author: Belle

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Former FIFTY FIFTY Members Sio, Aran, and Saena Sign With New Agency

The three former FIFTY FIFTY members have found a new home! Sio, Aran, and Saena have signed with a new agency and are set to release new music later this year.

Former FIFTY FIFTY Members Sign With New Label

On August 12, IOK Company announced the launch of its new label, MASSIVE E&C, and revealed that they had signed exclusive contracts with Saena, Aran, and Sio, three of the former members of the popular girl group FIFTY FIFTY.

With this exciting new chapter, Saena, Aran, and Sio will be joining MASSIVE E&C and are set to embark on their new journey as part of a global idol group. The trio is expected to begin their activities under this new label later this year, signaling a fresh start after a turbulent period.

“We plan to fully support these talented and passionate members to help them achieve even greater success worldwide,” a spokesperson for IOK Company said. “With the team behind the success of ‘Cupid,’ we aim to create a new success story in the global market.”

A Rocky Start for Sio, Aran, and Saena

IOK Company’s decision to launch MASSIVE E&C and sign the three former FIFTY FIFTY members is a strategic move aimed at bolstering its presence in both domestic and international music markets. The company is clearly positioning itself to become a significant player in the global entertainment industry, with Saena, Aran, and Sio playing a pivotal role in this ambition.

The road to this new beginning has been anything but smooth for the three idols. Last year, Sio, Aran, and Saena faced significant challenges when they sought to suspend their exclusive contracts with their previous agency, ATTRAKT. Unfortunately, their request was denied by the Seoul Central District Court, leading to a complicated legal battle. While all four members of FIFTY FIFTY initially decided to appeal the court’s decision, Keena eventually chose to withdraw her appeal and rejoined ATTRAKT in October. This decision led to the termination of Saena, Aran, and Sio’s contracts with ATTRAKT, effectively ending their tenure with the original group.

Meanwhile, ATTRAKT has moved forward with its plans to reorganize FIFTY FIFTY as a five-member group, with Keena remaining in the lineup. The agency has confirmed that the newly revamped group is preparing for a comeback in September, which is eagerly awaited by fans.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Baekhyun Drops ‘Hello, World’ Scheduler

Mark your calendars: EXO’s Baekhyun is making his highly anticipated return! Following the announcement of his September comeback, the “Bambi” singer has unveiled the ‘Hello, World’ scheduler.

Baekhyun Drops ‘Hello, World’ Scheduler

On August 12 at midnight KST, Baekhyun officially shared the date and details for his upcoming solo comeback. Fans were thrilled as the EXO member revealed the ‘Hello, World’ scheduler, offering a glimpse into what lies ahead for his next release.

This upcoming EP is particularly significant as it marks Baekhyun’s first album to be widely available in North America. In line with this milestone, Baekhyun’s USA Official Artist Store, aptly named ‘BAEKHYUN STORE,’ opened its doors on August 13th.

The ‘BAEKHYUN STORE’ is the go-to site for pre-ordering and purchasing the USA Exclusive versions of Baekhyun’s highly anticipated fourth mini album, “Hello, World.” To add to the excitement, the store features a mini-game with a delightful surprise at the end, making the shopping experience even more engaging for fans.

The release of a U.S. exclusive album signals Baekhyun’s first major step into the U.S. music scene as a solo artist. By making this album available in North America, Baekhyun is not only reaching out to his American fans but also solidifying his presence on a global scale. Following the release of “Hello, World,” fans can expect Baekhyun to have an active presence in North America, with potential appearances in global mass media.

In related news, fellow EXO member Chanyeol is also set for a solo comeback in late August. ‘Black Out’ is Chanyeol’s first solo EP since debuting with the group back in 2012. This also means that two members of EXO will be dropping new music just within a week.

Baekhyun will be making his grand return with his fourth mini album, “Hello, World,” on September 6 at 6 p.m. KST.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Chanyeol Solo Debut EP ‘Black Out’ Surpasses 26K Pre-Orders on Ktown4U

Chanyeol is already set for domination ahead of the release of his solo debut EP. The EXO member‘s upcoming EP ‘Black Out’ has already gained over 26,000 pre-orders on Ktown4U in the first 24 hours!

‘Black Out’ Surpasses 26K Ktown4U Pre-Orders in 24 Hours

On August 9, the EXO social media channels announced that Chanyeol will be dropping his first solo mini-album ‘Black Out’ on August 28, 2024. Soon after, the EP was made available on several online stores including Ktown4U.

Interestingly, it didn’t take long for the highly anticipated EP to dominate Ktown4u sales. It was revealed that the mini-album has surpassed 26,694 pre-orders in the first 24 hours alone. With that in mind, Chanyeol is expected to continue dominating with ‘Black Out’ later this month.

Chanyeol’s upcoming mini-album ‘Black Out’ marks a significant milestone in his career as it is his first solo project in 12 years since debuting with EXO in 2012. This mini-album, set to feature six tracks across various genres, showcases Chanyeol’s versatility as an artist. The title track, also named “Black Out,” is anticipated to be a standout, reflecting his growth and evolution as a musician.

In addition to his album release, Chanyeol is preparing to embark on an exciting solo tour, the ‘2024 Chanyeol Live Tour: Cityscape’. The tour will kick off with performances in Seoul at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall on September 6-7. From there, Chanyeol will continue to connect with his fans across Asia, visiting 10 different cities. This tour promises to be a unique opportunity for fans to experience Chanyeol’s music and stage presence up close.

Adding to the excitement, Chanyeol is also set to appear in the highly anticipated Netflix series “The Frog” which is scheduled to premiere on August 23, 2024. His role in the series is expected to further demonstrate his talents as an actor, broadening his already impressive repertoire in the entertainment industry. With both his music and acting projects on the horizon, 2024 is shaping up to be a landmark year for Chanyeol.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

G-Dragon October Comeback Rumors Addressed by Galaxy Corporation

G-Dragon has recently addressed the speculation surrounding his highly anticipated comeback. The BIGBANG leader‘s agency has issued a statement addressing the October comeback rumors.

Galaxy Corporation Addresses G-Dragon’s October Comeback Rumors

On August 1, Park Myung Soo created a buzz by casually mentioning on his radio show, “I heard G-Dragon is coming back in the month after next.”

Park Myung Soo’s remark quickly gained traction, given his close relationship with G-Dragon. The two developed a strong bond during their time together on the popular variety show “Infinite Challenge,” leading many to believe that Park Myung Soo might have insider information about G-Dragon’s plans. Fans and media outlets interpreted his comment as a potential spoiler, hinting at G-Dragon’s return in October.

In response to the growing speculation, a representative from G-Dragon’s agency Galaxy Corporation stepped in to address the rumors. While the specifics of their statement have yet to be fully disclosed, the agency’s involvement also suggests that there might be some truth to the comeback whispers.

“There is no specific timing set for G-Dragon’s comeback yet; it’s not true that it has been finalized for October. Discussions are still ongoing,” they said.

The agency’s acknowledgment of the rumors has only fueled the excitement among fans who are eagerly awaiting new music from the iconic artist.

More Comeback Rumors On The Rise

Meanwhile, new speculations have appeared overnight. Netizens believe that G-Dragon is gearing up for a November comeback as he reportedly booked the Gocheok Dome for a solo concert. Additionally, there are reports suggesting the BIGBANG member will perform at the 2024 MAMA Awards. However, none of the speculations have been confirmed by Galaxy Corporation.

G-Dragon’s potential return would mark a significant moment in the K-pop industry, given his influential status and the impact he has had on music and fashion worldwide. As fans await official confirmation, the anticipation for G-Dragon’s comeback also continues to build, promising an exciting period ahead for VIPs and the broader music community.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Chanyeol Announces ‘City-scape’ Asia Tour Dates and Locations

Chanyeol is set to become the next EXO member to host a solo tour this year, much to the excitement of fans worldwide. SM Entertainment has announced the ‘City-scape’ Asia Tour, which will cover several cities later in 2024.

Chanyeol’s ‘City-scape’ Asia Tour Dates and Locations Announced

On August 2, the announcement was made via EXO’s official social media platforms, revealing a striking poster for Chanyeol’s ‘City-scape’ 2024 solo tour. The tour will cover 10 major cities across Asia, including Seoul, Ho Chi Minh, Manila, Bangkok, Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka, Nagoya, Jakarta, and Hong Kong.

The tour will kick off with two performances in Seoul on September 6 and 7. From there, Chanyeol will take his show on the road, visiting a series of vibrant and culturally rich cities. The tour promises to be a spectacular journey, as Chanyeol brings his music and dynamic performances to fans across the region.

In Ho Chi Minh, Manila, and Bangkok, fans can expect electrifying shows filled with Chanyeol’s signature energy and charm. The Japanese leg of the tour will also see him performing in Tokyo, Fukuoka, Osaka, and Nagoya, where his popularity is immense. Chanyeol’s Indonesian fans in Jakarta will also have the opportunity to witness his solo stage presence, before he heads to Hong Kong for the tour’s grand finale on December 21.

An Exciting Solo Debut

The tour marks a significant milestone in Chanyeol’s career as it is also set to support his debut solo album which will be released later this month. Known for his versatile musical abilities, including rap, singing, and instrumental skills, Chanyeol is also expected to deliver a series of memorable and impactful performances throughout the tour.

The announcement has also generated significant buzz among fans, who eagerly anticipate the opportunity to see Chanyeol perform live. As the tour dates draw nearer, excitement also continues to build, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attend the ‘City-scape’ 2024 solo tour.

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Rapper Ch1tkey Fakes Death to Promote New Album

Rapper Ch1tkey has revealed that he faked his own death, causing an uproar among his followers and the wider public.

Ch1tkey Admits Faking Own Death

The initial reports suggested that Ch1tkey had tragically fallen to his death while attempting to complete a social media challenge. His girlfriend even posted a heartfelt tribute to him on Instagram, which further fueled the belief in his demise. The news quickly spread through online communities and social media, with many expressing their condolences. An acquaintance of Ch1tkey seemingly confirmed the reports, adding credibility to the story.

However, sharp-eyed netizens began to question the authenticity of the reports. They noted that Ch1tkey had been actively playing his favorite game until the supposed date of his death. Furthermore, there were no records of a fire department response at the time of the alleged accident, raising suspicions about the validity of the incident.

One netizen provided a crucial piece of information, claiming, “Someone I know lives in the apartment building where Ch1tkey resides. The police came, and someone inside said it was a stunt to draw attention to his album. Both his girlfriend and Ch1tkey were present.” This revelation cast serious doubt on the initial narrative, suggesting that the entire episode was orchestrated for publicity.

A Grand Hoax

Amid the growing skepticism, Ch1tkey took to social media to reveal the truth. He posted a simple greeting, “Hello,” followed by the release of his new track “Back.” This confirmed that the reports of his death were indeed a hoax designed to attract attention.

The incident has sparked a significant backlash, with many condemning Ch1tkey’s actions as a tasteless publicity stunt. The controversy surrounding the fake death has brought attention to the lengths some individuals might go for fame and recognition, raising ethical questions about the tactics used in the entertainment industry.

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LE SSERAFIM Sakura Regrets Becoming an Idol

Sakura has opened up about her regrets. Sadly, the LE SSERAFIM member admitted that one of them happens to be becoming an idol.

LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura Reveals Regrets in Life

On July 30, a post titled “LE SSERAFIM SAKURA ‘I Don’t Know Why I Chose To Be An Idol’” rapidly gained attention online. Within an hour of its upload, the post had already garnered over 680 responses, reflecting the intense interest and mixed reactions from the public.

The post featured an article that discussed LE SSERAFIM’s recent documentary. In the documentary, Sakura tearfully expressed her regret over becoming an idol. She revealed that the constant criticism had led her to lose her confidence, and she questioned her decision to pursue a career in the entertainment industry.

“I don’t know why I chose to be an idol. For what? Rather than say that it was the wrong choice, I want to ask if being an idol is what I do best. Whenever I make a mistake I think to myself that had I chosen something else, I, too, could have been good at something,” she said.

“No matter what anyone says, I feel happiest when I am an idol, so I felt it wasn’t right for me to doubt and question myself because I am not talented,” Sakura added. “I never had those thoughts but when I hear what people say, I sometimes think these things. I wonder why I am doing this to myself when I am crying and struggling so much.”

Netizens React to Sakura’s Confession

Sakura’s candid confession was highlighted in the article, capturing the emotional turmoil she has faced. Despite her tearful admission, many netizens reacted unsympathetically. They criticized both Sakura and her agency, HYBE, accusing them of playing the victim card. Comments suggested that, given her success and the financial rewards of being an idol, she had little right to complain. The general sentiment was that many people would love to be in her position, making her regrets seem ungrateful to some.

The backlash illustrates the complex and often harsh reality of public life for idols, where vulnerability can be met with scorn rather than support. While Sakura’s openness about her struggles aimed to shed light on the pressures faced by idols, it also sparked a broader discussion about the expectations and criticisms that come with fame.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Suzy Considering New Mystery Thriller Drama

Suzy might be working on a new mystery thriller drama soon! The “Doona” star has been confirmed to be considering a role in a new series from “Emergency Declaration” director Han Jae Rim!

Suzy in Talks for New Mystery Thriller Drama

On July 30, it was reported that Suzy might be starring in the upcoming mystery thriller drama “Delusion” (literal title). In response, Suzy’s agency Management SOOP confirmed the news.

“It is true that Suzy received an offer to star in ‘Delusion’ and is currently reviewing the offer,” they said.

“Delusion” is based on a webtoon and is set in 1935 Gyeongseong and 1800s Shanghai. The drama follows the intriguing story of artist Yun Yi Ho, who is commissioned to paint a portrait of the enigmatic woman Song Jung Hwa and subsequently visits her hotel. The project is helmed by director Han Jae Rim, known for his work on films like “The Show Must Go On,” “The King,” and “Emergency Declaration.”

According to the report, Suzy was the first actress considered for the role during the planning stages of “Delusion.” However, her casting was initially canceled due to scheduling conflicts. With adjustments to the production timeline, Suzy once again received an offer to play the role of Song Jung Hwa, a mysterious vampire woman.

In March, it was revealed that Han So Hee and Ryu Jun Yeol had received casting offers for “Delusion.” However, both actors announced in the following month that they had discontinued discussions regarding their involvement in the project, following the news of their breakup.

If Suzy accepts the role, it will mark another significant addition to her growing portfolio of diverse and challenging roles. Known for her versatility, Suzy has previously impressed audiences with her performances in various dramas and films, including “While You Were Sleeping,” “Vagabond,” and “Start-Up.” Her potential involvement in “Delusion” is already generating excitement among fans, who are eager to see her take on the complex character of Song Jung Hwa.

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HyunA Responds to Pregnancy Rumors

HyunA has finally responded to pregnancy rumors. The soloist’s agency clarified her current state in a new interview.

HyunA’s Agency Addresses Pregnancy Rumors

On July 29, HyunA’s label AT AREA addressed recent rumors regarding the artist’s alleged pregnancy. In an interview, a representative from the label emphatically denied the claims, stating that the rumors were completely unfounded.

“Her pregnancy rumors are absolutely false. We hope that baseless speculation does not spread,” they said.

The rumors began to circulate following HyunA’s announcement of her engagement to Yong Joon Hyung, a former member of Highlight, who has been embroiled in controversies in the past. The sudden wedding announcement, set for October, sparked a wave of speculation and controversy, with many questioning the timing and circumstances of the engagement.

HyunA’s relationship with Yong Joon Hyung has been a source of intense public scrutiny and has significantly impacted her popularity. The backlash from the engagement announcement has led to a decline in public support for HyunA, with many fans expressing disappointment and concern over her choices.

Recently, the negative sentiment surrounding HyunA’s personal life was compounded by the cancellation of her tour due to poor ticket sales. The cancellation was widely ridiculed, with critics attributing the low sales to her waning popularity and the controversies surrounding her relationship.

Despite the challenges, HyunA has remained active in her career, continuing to release music and engage with her fans. Her label, AT AREA, has stood by her, dismissing the pregnancy rumors as baseless and urging the public to refrain from spreading false information.

HyunA, known for her bold and unique style, has always been a polarizing figure in the K-pop industry. Her relationship with Yong Joon Hyung has added another layer of complexity to her public image, but she continues to persevere and focus on her artistic endeavors. The response from AT AREA underscores their support for HyunA as she navigates through this tumultuous period in her career.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Baekhyun Teases September Comeback with ‘Chungking Express’ Homage

EXO member Baekhyun successfully wrapped up his first offline solo Asia tour. Amazingly, the “Candy” singer also teased a summer comeback with an homage to the beloved Chinese film “Chungking Express”.

EXO’s Baekhyun Drops ‘Chungking Express’ Inspired Teaser for Summer Comeback

Baekhyun has wrapped up ‘Lonsdaleite [dot]’ with two unforgettable shows at the KSPO Dome in Songpa-gu, Seoul, on July 27 and 28.

The concerts were a showcase of Baekhyun’s exceptional talent, as he delivered mesmerizing performances and flawless live renditions of hits like ‘Diamond,’ ‘PLAYBOY,’ ‘Stay Up,’ and ‘Ice Queen.’ His precise choreography and powerful vocals left the audience in awe, making the events a memorable experience for all attendees.

Before the final performance, Baekhyun took a moment to express his heartfelt gratitude to the fans. “I mentioned that this would be a time to show what one person, Baekhyun, could achieve in the future, but I ended up learning a lot from you. The moments with you are the happiest moments of my life,” he shared, his voice filled with emotion. He continued, “The memories we’ve made together will remain in my heart forever, and I hope they will always be happy memories in your hearts as well.”

An Interesting Teaser

The encore concluded with a visually striking video, inspired by a famous scene from the movie ‘Chungking Express,’ featuring Baekhyun eating pineapple canned food. The video also ended with the date ‘2024. 09,’ teasing fans with hints of Baekhyun’s comeback in September.

The comeback is certainly an exciting one for fans since it means that two EXO members will be releasing new music this summer. Fellow EXO member Chanyeol has previously been confirmed to release his first solo album in August. This will also be followed by the ‘2024 CHANYEOL LIVE TOUR : 都市風景 (City-scape)’ starting with performances at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall in Yongsan-gu, Seoul, on September 6-7.

“Chungking Express” is a 1994 Hong Kong comedy-drama film written and directed by Wong Kar-wai. It follows two lovesick Hong Kong policemen mulling over their relationship with a woman. It also starred Takeshi Kaneshiro, Tony Leung, Valerie Chow, Faye Wong, and Brigitte Lin.

Baekhyun and Chanyeol have not yet announced their summer comeback dates. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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