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Kang Daniel’s KONNECT Entertainment Loses All Artists

In a shocking turn of events, KONNECT Entertainment, the agency founded by popular K-pop artist Kang Daniel, is teetering on the brink of closure. Reports have surfaced indicating that all of the company’s artists are either in the process of leaving or have already parted ways with the agency. This includes Kang Daniel himself, who formed KONNECT Entertainment in June 2019 and also held the position of CEO and artist within the company.

KONNECT Entertainment Faces Uncertain Future as Artists Depart

The departure of artists from KONNECT Entertainment has been revealed through an exclusive report by Star News. GFriend member Yuju, who became part of the agency in September 2021, is said to have concluded her association with the agency in mid-April. Additionally, the dance team WE DEM BOYZ, which inked a deal with the agency in November 2022, made the decision to terminate their contract just a year later, expressing their intent to part ways in November 2023. Furthermore, singer and producer Chancellor has also reportedly bid adieu to the company.

The turmoil within KONNECT Entertainment escalates further as it is disclosed that the majority owner of the agency, holding a substantial 70% stake, is embroiled in a legal battle with Kang Daniel. The lawsuit alleges the individual of engaging in the falsification of documents, embezzlement of funds from the company, and other serious charges. As a result, Kang Daniel is anticipated to let go of his ties with KONNECT Entertainment upon the expiration of his contract in early June, in addition to relinquishing his role as CEO.

Is Kang Daniel’s Agency Closing Down?

With the departure of all its artists and the impending exit of its founder and CEO, KONNECT Entertainment is poised to cease its operations. The company’s workforce has dwindled to around 20 employees, and reports indicate that the agency’s premises in the Sinsa neighborhood of Gangnam have been vacated.

This development has sent shockwaves through the music industry and has left fans and industry insiders speculating about the future of KONNECT Entertainment. The departure of Kang Daniel and the other artists from the agency raises questions about their next career moves and the impact of these significant changes on the K-pop landscape.

As the situation continues to unfold, many are closely watching for further developments and hoping for a resolution that ensures the well-being of the artists and staff associated with KONNECT Entertainment. The future of the agency and its artists also remains uncertain, and the K-pop community eagerly awaits clarity on how this unprecedented turn of events will shape the industry.

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YG Entertainment Confirms BABYMONSTER Comeback with Full Album

Get ready for a major return as BABYMONSTER prepares for a comeback with full album! In addition to that, YG Entertainment revealed plans for TREASURE’s future.

YG Entertainment Announces BABYMONSTER Comeback with Full Album

On May 20 at midnight KST, YG Entertainment thrilled fans with a special announcement video featuring founder Yang Hyun Suk, who outlined the company’s exciting plans for BABYMONSTER’s upcoming activities.

Yang Hyun Suk began by announcing that BABYMONSTER would be unveiling a performance video for their recent B-side track “LIKE THAT,” a song composed by the renowned Charlie Puth. The performance video is set to be released within the month, giving fans a fresh taste of the group’s dynamic capabilities and setting the stage for their larger comeback.

The highlight of the announcement was the reveal of BABYMONSTER’s plan to release a full-length album around October. Although Yang Hyun Suk mentioned October in the video, the English subtitles intriguingly translated his statement to “either September or October,” leaving some room for speculation and anticipation. The album will be BABYMONSTER’s first full-length project, marking a significant milestone in their career and promising a comprehensive showcase of their musical range and growth.

Before the full album drops, BABYMONSTER will tease fans with a pre-release single from the upcoming album in early July. The strategy aims to build excitement and maintain momentum leading up to the album’s release. The pre-release single will give fans an early taste of the new music and set the tone for what to expect from the full album.

YG Entertainment Reveals Plans for TREASURE

Yang Hyun Suk didn’t stop there. He also touched on the plans for TREASURE, another popular group under YG Entertainment. TREASURE is set to return with a new song titled “KING KONG,” scheduled for release on May 28. This will be followed by a new album from TREASURE in the fall, though specific dates were not disclosed. The lineup of releases highlights YG Entertainment’s commitment to keeping their roster active and their fans engaged with a steady stream of new content.

The announcements have generated considerable buzz and excitement among fans, eager to see what BABYMONSTER and TREASURE have in store. BABYMONSTER’s forthcoming projects, particularly their first full-length album, are highly anticipated, and fans are looking forward to the new music and performances that will further establish their place in the K-pop industry.

Overall, YG Entertainment’s strategic planning for BABYMONSTER’s comeback and TREASURE’s upcoming releases underscores their dedication to their artists’ growth and their fans’ satisfaction. With new music and significant projects on the horizon, both groups are also poised to make substantial impacts in the coming months.

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P1Harmony Attend Chicago Cubs Game in Customized Jerseys

Ahead of their concert, P1Harmony attended the Chicago Cubs vs. Pittsburgh Pirates MLB game on May 19, showcasing their enthusiasm for American sports and engaging with fans in a unique setting. The members made a notable entrance, sporting matching customized jerseys that added a personalized and cohesive touch to their appearance.

P1Harmony Wear Customized Jerseys While Attending Chicago Cubs Game

P1Harmony is currently on their “2024 P1Harmony LIVE TOUR [P1ustage H: UTOP1A]” in North America. With their concert in Chicago at Credit Union 1 Arena scheduled shortly after, the group seized the opportunity to immerse themselves in the local culture by attending the baseball game. Their participation in the game festivities not only delighted their fans but also introduced them to a broader audience.

One of the highlights of the game was Theo’s successful first pitch, which showcased his athletic skills and added an element of excitement to the event. Keeho also made a memorable contribution by singing the classic baseball anthem “Take Me Out to the Ballgame,” surprising and delighting both their fans and the baseball crowd. This unexpected performance highlighted Keeho’s versatility and added a fun, musical element to the game.

The Chicago Cubs embraced P1Harmony’s presence, sharing photos of the group at the game via their official Instagram account. This gesture extended a warm welcome to the K-pop idols and introduced them to the baseball community. Fans, known as P1eces, flooded the comments section with praise and support for the members. They expressed their pride in P1Harmony’s accomplishments and thanked the Cubs for providing this unique opportunity.

P1Harmony’s Bright 2024

The band’s interaction with the MLB game exemplifies their commitment to connecting with their audience and embracing new experiences during their tour. It also demonstrates their ability to bridge cultural gaps through music and entertainment, making a lasting impression on both their dedicated fanbase and new audiences.

P1Harmony’s North American tour continues into June, with concerts planned across various cities. This tour is an essential part of their journey to global recognition, allowing them to showcase their talent to international fans. Their attendance at the Cubs game in customized jerseys, along with Theo’s first pitch and Keeho’s surprise performance, adds a memorable chapter to their tour, highlighting their dynamic presence and the enthusiastic reception they receive in diverse settings.

As they continue their tour, P1Harmony’s engagement in such events enhances their visibility and strengthens their connection with fans, further solidifying their status as rising stars in the global music scene.

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Chris Hemsworth Gushes About Meeting STRAY KIDS at MET Gala 2024

It looks like even Hollywood actors get starstruck! Chris Hemsworth recently spoke about his exciting meeting with STRAY KIDS at the MET Gala 2024.

Chris Hemsworth Discusses Adorable Meeting with STRAY KIDS

“Thor” actor Chris Hemsworth recently sat down for an engaging interview with Buzzfeed UK, where he opened up about his unexpected yet delightful interaction with STRAY KIDS at the 2024 MET Gala. The encounter quickly became a highlight of the event, leaving fans and attendees buzzing with excitement.

During the interview, Hemsworth couldn’t contain his enthusiasm as he recounted the moment he first met the STRAY KIDS members. He described how he had been aware of the group even before their encounter at the MET Gala, expressing his admiration for their music and dynamic performances. In particular, Hemsworth referenced their hit song “Back Door,” indicating that he had been a fan for some time and was genuinely thrilled to meet them in person.

The Australian actor shared a humorous anecdote about lifting the members off their feet, a moment that was both spontaneous and memorable. “I’m just a fan who was excited to meet his favorites,” Hemsworth joked, highlighting his genuine affection for the group. His friendly and approachable demeanor made the interaction even more special for the STRAY KIDS members and showcased Hemsworth’s personality as a social butterfly who easily connects with others.

STRAY KIDS on Meeting the Marvel Superstar

STRAY KIDS also shared their side of the story in a separate interview. They expressed their joy and surprise at being picked up by Hemsworth, describing it as an unforgettable experience. The members spoke highly of Hemsworth’s warmth and friendliness, emphasizing how his gesture made them feel welcomed and appreciated at such a prestigious event.

The meeting between Chris Hemsworth and Stray Kids at the MET Gala not only highlighted the actor’s down-to-earth nature but also bridged the worlds of Hollywood and K-pop in a unique and endearing way. Fans of both Hemsworth and Stray Kids were delighted to see their worlds collide, creating a memorable and heartwarming moment that transcended cultural boundaries.

Hemsworth’s admiration for Stray Kids and his willingness to share this publicly added a layer of authenticity to his persona, further endearing him to fans. It also provided Stray Kids with a significant boost in visibility, showcasing their growing influence and appeal beyond the K-pop industry.

As the interview concluded, it was clear that the bond formed between Chris Hemsworth and Stray Kids at the MET Gala was a genuine and mutually appreciated encounter. This crossover of Hollywood star power and K-pop charisma created a buzz that resonated with fans globally, underscoring the universal language of music and the power of genuine human connections.

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EVERGLOW Confirms Summer Comeback with ‘ZOMBIE’ Single Album

EVERGLOW has officially unveiled the promotion schedule for their highly anticipated comeback! The girl group has just unveiled a scheduler for their upcoming “ZOMBIE” single album!

EVERGLOW Drops ‘ZOMBIE’ Single Album Promo Schedule

On May 20 at midnight KST, EVERGLOW surprised their dedicated fanbase by confirming their summer comeback plans.

The initial buzz began with the release of the “Coming Soon” poster through EVERGLOW’s official social media channels. The intriguing image featured an ECG machine monitor displaying the members’ English names and the phrase “COMING SOON.” The poster not only heightened excitement but also revealed the specific comeback date and time: June 10 at 6 p.m. KST.

EVERGLOW’s forthcoming release marks their return to the music scene since their fourth single album, “ALL MY GIRLS,” which dropped in August of last year. “ALL MY GIRLS” showcased the group’s signature girl power and cemented their position in the K-pop industry. Despite the 1 year and 8 months gap between releases, EVERGLOW’s title track “SLAY” from the previous album achieved remarkable success, securing first place on various music shows and demonstrating their enduring popularity.

Following the success of “ALL MY GIRLS,” EVERGLOW embarked on their second U.S. tour, the “2023 EVERGLOW US TOUR ALL MY GIRLS.” This tour saw the group performing in 10 cities, including New Haven, New York, Atlanta, Washington D.C., St. Petersburg, Louisville, Chicago, Denver, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. The tour was a resounding success, further solidifying EVERGLOW’s reputation as a dynamic and globally popular girl group.

EVERGLOW’s Bright Future

In addition to their American tour, EVERGLOW recently completed their first Japanese concert, the “2024 EVERGLOW JAPAN CONCERT ALL MY GIRLS,” with performances in Tokyo and Osaka. These concerts reinforced their status as a “global idol” group, showcasing their widespread appeal and ability to captivate audiences worldwide.

Now, as EVERGLOW prepares to return to the domestic music scene after a 10-month hiatus, fans are eagerly anticipating the new music and concept transformation the group will bring with “ZOMBIE.” The group’s ability to consistently deliver powerful performances and innovative concepts has kept them at the forefront of the K-pop industry, and this comeback is expected to be no different.

The countdown to June 10 at 6 p.m. KST is officially on, and the excitement surrounding EVERGLOW’s comeback continues to build. With a proven track record of success and a dedicated fanbase behind them, “ZOMBIE” is poised to be another significant milestone in EVERGLOW’s impressive career.

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STAYC Announces Summer Comeback After Year-Long Hiatus

It’s official—STAYC is set to make an exciting comeback this July! It’s a welcome return considering the girl group has been in a lengthy year-long hiatus!

STAYC Ends Year-Long Hiatus with Summer Comeback Announcement

On May 20, it was reported that the popular girl group will be releasing a new album this summer. In response to the report, STAYC’s agency, Highup Entertainment, confirmed the news by stating, “STAYC is working hard to prepare a new album ahead of their comeback in early July.”

This highly anticipated return marks STAYC’s first comeback in approximately 11 months since the release of their third mini-album “TEENFRESH” in August of last year. “TEENFRESH” was a significant milestone for the group, solidifying their position in the K-pop industry with its catchy tracks and vibrant concept. The album was well-received by both fans and critics, showcasing STAYC’s growth and versatility as artists.

STAYC, an acronym for “Star To A Young Culture,” debuted in November 2020 and quickly gained a massive following due to their unique sound and powerful performances. The six-member group, consisting of Sieun, Seeun, Sumin, J, Isa, and Yoon, has consistently delivered hit after hit, earning them numerous accolades and a dedicated fan base known as SWITH.

STAYC’s Welcome Return

Their upcoming album is expected to build on the success of “TEENFRESH” and continue to showcase STAYC’s distinctive musical style and charisma. Fans are eagerly anticipating what new concepts and sounds the group will explore in their latest release. Highup Entertainment has hinted at a fresh and dynamic comeback, suggesting that STAYC is ready to surprise and impress both fans and the broader K-pop community once again.

In addition to their album preparations, STAYC recently concluded their first world tour, also titled “TEENFRESH,” which saw them perform in 15 cities around the globe. The tour was a major success, with sold-out shows and enthusiastic responses from international fans. The global exposure and experience gained from the tour have undoubtedly contributed to the group’s growth and confidence, which will likely be reflected in their upcoming album.

The announcement of their July comeback has generated significant buzz on social media, with fans expressing their excitement and anticipation for new music and performances from STAYC. The group’s ability to consistently deliver high-quality music and captivating performances has solidified their place as one of the leading girl groups in the current K-pop landscape.

As the comeback date approaches, more details about the album, including its title, concept, and tracklist, are expected to be revealed, further heightening the anticipation among fans. STAYC’s return also promises to be one of the most exciting events of the summer in the K-pop world, and fans can hardly wait to see what the talented group has in store.

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BLITZERS Auditions for Britain’s Got Talent

BLITZERS is making headlines for their recent appearance on a popular TV show. The boy group recently auditioned for a spot on “Britain’s Got Talent” (BGT), a significant achievement that highlights their growing international presence.

BLITZERS Makes Surprise Appearance in ‘Britain’s Got Talent’

Talent shows are a prominent genre globally, with nearly every country hosting its own version of these competitions. Among the most recognized worldwide is the Got Talent series, named according to the host country. “Britain’s Got Talent” (BGT) stands out as one of the most watched versions, partly due to the presence of industry legend Simon Cowell as a judge. In an exciting first, the latest season of BGT featured a K-pop group auditioning, a milestone for the genre.

Earlier this year, speculation began among fans when members of BLITZERS were spotted on the show’s official Instagram account. The show, recorded in advance, kept fans eagerly awaiting the broadcast of the episode featuring BLITZERS’ audition. Finally, on May 18, the much-anticipated episode aired, showcasing BLITZERS performing a cover of Shawn Mendes’s “There’s Nothing Holdin’ Me Back,” enriched with an additional rap verse.

The group’s performance was met with unanimous approval from the judges, each casting a “yes” vote. This success means BLITZERS will be considered for advancement to the show’s semi-finals, a significant step that could further propel their international career.

Will BLITZERS Find International Success?

The reaction from fans was overwhelmingly positive. Many took to social media to express their pride and excitement at seeing BLITZERS on such a prestigious platform. They also praised the group’s talent, stage presence, and the uniqueness they brought to the performance. The appearance on BGT not only highlights BLITZERS’ versatility but also showcases the global appeal and increasing acceptance of K-pop in mainstream media.

The audition on BGT is a noteworthy moment for BLITZERS, marking their growing influence and the expanding reach of K-pop. The group’s successful audition also underscores their potential to make a significant impact on international audiences.

As they await the judges’ decision on their advancement to the semi-finals, fans and supporters are hopeful and excited about what the future holds for BLITZERS. The event is also a testament to the group’s hard work and talent, paving the way for more K-pop acts to enter and succeed in international arenas.

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RIIZE Hangs Out With Måneskin At Tecate Emblema 2024

While making history at Tecate Emblema 2024, RIIZE also found time to connect with other artists like Måneskin and Paty Cantú, who were also performing at the festival!

RIIZE Shares Awesome Photo with Måneskin

On May 17, local time, RIIZE made headlines by becoming the first K-pop artist to ever perform at the major music festival in Mexico City. Their groundbreaking performance marked a significant milestone for both the group and the genre, showcasing K-pop’s global reach and appeal.

The day after their historic performance, RIIZE took to X to share some memorable moments from the previous night. Among the highlights were two photos featuring the members with Italian rock band Måneskin and Mexican singer Paty Cantú. These interactions highlighted the camaraderie and mutual respect between artists from diverse musical backgrounds, further emphasizing the universal language of music.

RIIZE’s appearance at Tecate Emblema 2024 was part of their ongoing international tour. Their Mexico City performance quickly went viral, especially due to the enthusiastic “RIIZE is seven” chant that echoed through the venue, a testament to the passionate support from their fans. However, another moment from the concert has also gained widespread attention for a completely different reason.

A First for RIIIZE

During a segment where the members were engaging with the audience, an unexpected incident occurred: a fan threw a bra onto the stage. The reactions from the members were varied and priceless. Eunseok appeared visibly embarrassed and shy, blushing as he tried to maintain his composure. On the other hand, Sungchan and Shotaro had more expressive reactions to the surprising item. Sungchan, in particular, displayed a range of emotions, his face contorting into numerous expressions that captured the shock and amusement of the moment.

The light-hearted incident added a humorous and memorable twist to their performance, endearing them even more to the audience. It also showcased the playful and spontaneous side of the group, further solidifying their connection with fans.

RIIZE’s journey continues as they prepare for their next stop in Los Angeles this week. The anticipation is high, as fans eagerly await their performance and the potential for more unforgettable moments. As RIIZE continues to break barriers and bring K-pop to new audiences around the world, their success at Tecate Emblema stands as a shining example of their growing influence and the universal power of music.

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BLACKPINK Jennie Donates 100M Won to Habitat for Humanity Korea

BLACKPINK’s Jennie has recently made a significant contribution to Habitat for Humanity Korea, an international housing welfare non-profit organization, by donating 100 million won (approximately $74,000 USD).

Jennie Aims To Aid Struggling Teens Through Habitat for Humanity Korea Donation

The generous donation is aimed at supporting Korean teenagers who have recently returned to Korea and are in need of housing and educational opportunities.

The primary objective of Jennie’s donation is to fund the construction of Rodemnamu International Alternative School, which will serve as both a residence and a learning facility for these teenagers. By providing a safe and supportive environment, the school will help these students transition smoothly into their new lives in Korea, offering them stability and a chance to pursue their educational aspirations without the worry of housing insecurity.

Jennie’s philanthropic gesture is particularly meaningful as she made the donation on behalf of BLACKPINK’s dedicated fanbase, known as BLINKs. This act of kindness not only reflects her commitment to social responsibility but also strengthens the bond between the artist and her fans, showcasing how their collective support can be channeled into positive societal impact.

Habitat for Humanity Korea expressed profound gratitude towards Jennie for her donation. The organization acknowledged that her contribution would significantly help in building a school that provides disadvantaged children with the opportunity to achieve their dreams. They also emphasized their commitment to starting the construction of the school as soon as possible to ensure that the students can benefit from it at the earliest.

BLACKPINK’s Philantrophy

This is not the first time Jennie and BLACKPINK have been involved in charitable activities. The group and its members have a history of using their platform and influence to support various causes, ranging from environmental initiatives to global humanitarian efforts. Jennie’s latest donation underscores her dedication to making a difference in the lives of young people facing challenging circumstances.

The construction of Rodemnamu International Alternative School will serve as a lasting legacy of Jennie’s generosity, providing countless teenagers with the resources and support they need to thrive. This initiative is expected to have a far-reaching impact, empowering students to focus on their education and personal growth, thereby laying a solid foundation for their future success.

In conclusion, Jennie’s donation to Habitat for Humanity Korea is a testament to her compassion and commitment to social welfare. By funding the construction of a school for returning Korean teenagers, she has not only provided them with a place to live and study but also inspired others to contribute towards creating a better future for those in need. This act of kindness highlights the significant role that celebrities can play in driving positive change and supporting vulnerable communities.

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LE SSERAFIM Eunchae Criticized For Talking About ‘Pressure to Perform Well’

LE SSERAFIM Eunchae has recently faced renewed interest and criticism over a statement she made during the group’s Weverse magazine interview for their “EASY” album. The scrutiny comes amid heightened public attention and criticism towards the group.

LE SSERAFIM Eunchae Faces Criticism For Honest Statement

In the interview, Eunchae candidly expressed the pressure she feels to perform well because they come from HYBE Labels, a company known for its massive success and influence in the K-pop industry. She admitted that it can be frustrating when the results don’t always seem to match the hard work the group puts in.

“We’re literally a team that came out of HYBE, and we’re working in a good environment, with good staff, so we feel like we should perform really well, and sometimes it’s overwhelming, because people only see the finished product, and if it’s not good, I feel guilty, and it’s hard to keep up. So I think the message in ‘EASY’ is the one I’m most confident about and the one I love the most, because it’s something I’ve wanted to say for a while, and I think there were a lot of times when my team worked hard and the results didn’t match up to the hard work we put in, and that makes me sad and frustrated, but now I’m thinking, ‘It’ll be cool if it works out later.’ So I’m trying to tell myself, ‘It’s no fun if it’s good from the beginning!’” – Hong Eunchae

The honest reflection resonated with many but also drew considerable criticism from netizens. The comments from netizens were notably harsh, with a significant portion of the feedback aligning with the criticism Eunchae and her groupmates have been receiving. A major point of contention has been LE SSERAFIM’s vocal performances, particularly during encore stages and their appearance at Coachella. Fans and critics alike have been vocal about their disappointment, suggesting that the group’s live singing did not meet the high standards expected from a HYBE-affiliated group.

LE SSERAFIM’s Previous Controversies

Adding fuel to the fire, reactions from other LE SSERAFIM members to the criticism have also been under scrutiny. For instance, Sakura’s response to negative comments about their Coachella performance has sparked further debate and dissatisfaction among fans and critics. Some felt that the group’s responses to the criticism lacked accountability or understanding of the fans’ concerns.

Eunchae’s statement about the disparity between their efforts and outcomes highlights the intense pressure and high expectations placed on K-pop idols, especially those from prominent labels like HYBE. While some fans empathize with the group’s struggles, others are less forgiving, expecting immediate perfection from such high-profile artists. The incident underscores the precarious nature of public perception in the K-pop industry, where artists are often subjected to rigorous standards and relentless scrutiny.

As LE SSERAFIM continues to navigate their career, they face the challenge of meeting these high expectations while staying true to their artistic journey. The situation highlights the broader issue of mental health and well-being in the entertainment industry, where the pressure to succeed can often overshadow the personal and collective growth of the artists. Going forward, how the group and their management address these criticisms and the expectations of their fanbase will be crucial in shaping their public image and career trajectory.

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