Author: Belle

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Seok Rakwon Departs ATBO For Health Issues

Seok Rakwon has officially departed from ATBO. His agency also announced the young idol’s decision to leave the group, confirming the sad reason for his departure.

IST Entertainment Announces Seok Rakwon Departure from ATBO

On May 6, IST Entertainment issued a statement confirming Seok’s departure from the boy group. According to the agency, the young idol has also chosen to prioritize his health after dealing with anxiety symptoms.

“In March of this year, Seok Rakwon went on hiatus due to anxiety symptoms and focused on recovering his health,” the statement read. “During his hiatus, we held in-depth discussions with Seok Rakwon about his future activities with the group and within the entertainment industry, but after careful discussion, the decision was made for him to focus more on his recovery with the artist’s health being the top priority.”

“Hence, Seok Rakwon concludes his activities as ATBO, and ATBO will continue activities with six members,” it added. “We once again apologize to fans who must have been surprised by the sudden news.”

“Please also show unchanging love and support for the six members who will spare no efforts in order to impress further,” the statement concluded.

Seok debuted as a member of ATBO back in 2022 after participating in IST Entertainment’s survival show “The Origin – A, B, Or What?”. Although Yang Dongwa was also initially expected to debut with the group, the agency later decided against it after his past misconduct when he was a student surfaced online. The group released their debut EP ‘The Beginning: 開花’ in July 2022. Their latest EP ‘Must Have’ was released in November last year.

Although it is unfortunate that Seok Rakwon will no longer be a part of ATBO, fans are also wishing for his speedy recovery and eventual return to the music industry. In the meantime, ATBO will promote with its six remaining members.

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FEATURES LATEST STORIES

YG Entertainment To Sell Studioplex Majority Stake

YG Entertainment‘s decision to sell 60% of its shares in Studioplex by the year’s end marks a strategic shift in the company’s approach to its drama production endeavors.

Will YG Entertainment Sell Its Studioplex Shares?

A new report reveals that YG Entertainment is planning to sell its shares in the studio by the end of the year. Since then, the company confirmed its plans in a statement.

“We are in the process of selling a portion of Studioplex shares to a production company with the aim of establishing a robust and competitive business structure aligned with our core operations,” they said. “We are dedicated to strengthening the production environment to ensure fiscal soundness.” 

Established in 2017 under YG’s umbrella, Studioplex was conceived as a means to capitalize on the burgeoning demand for high-quality dramas amidst stiff competition from industry rivals like SM Entertainment and JYP Entertainment.

The rationale behind this move was clear: by integrating drama production with talent management, YG aimed to create synergies that would not only diversify its revenue streams but also enhance its overall market positioning. However, despite initial optimism, Studioplex encountered its fair share of challenges along the way.

The Studio Problem

One notable setback was the controversy surrounding the SBS drama ‘Joseon Exorcist’ which aired in March 2021. The series faced intense scrutiny for its historical inaccuracies, prompting swift cancellation after just two episodes. This misstep not only tarnished Studioplex’s reputation but also resulted in substantial financial losses, as all production costs had to be written off.

Similarly, the tvN drama ‘Mr Queen,’ also produced by Studioplex and sharing the same writer, faced criticism for its portrayal of historical events. These controversies, coupled with declining performance and mounting debt, necessitated a reevaluation of Studioplex’s strategic direction.

By divesting a significant portion of its shares and relinquishing management rights, YG Entertainment aims to streamline its operations and refocus its resources on core business activities. The decision also reflects a commitment to adaptability and a willingness to make tough choices in the face of adversity, positioning YG for sustainable growth in an ever-evolving entertainment landscape.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Chen Announces 4th Mini Album ‘Door’ For May Release

Chen, the talented vocalist from the globally acclaimed K-pop group EXO, is poised to make a triumphant return with his upcoming solo comeback for a May release. The announcement of his fourth mini-album, titled ‘DOOR’ scheduled for release on May 28, has sparked excitement and anticipation among music enthusiasts worldwide.

Chen Announces New EP ‘DOOR’ For May Release

The forthcoming release marks a significant milestone in Chen’s solo career, arriving approximately a year and a half after his previous mini-album ‘Last Scene’ which graced listeners’ ears in November 2022. What sets “DOOR” apart is not only its promise of fresh musical offerings but also the fact that it will be Chen’s debut album under his new label, INB100, signaling a new chapter in his artistic journey.

Since his debut as a member of EXO in 2012, Chen has captivated audiences with his soulful voice and charismatic presence. In 2019, he ventured into the realm of solo artistry with the release of his debut EP ‘April, and a Flower’. This solo endeavor proved to be a resounding success, with the EP reaching number two on South Korea’s Gaon Album Chart and spawning the chart-topping single “Beautiful Goodbye.” Chen’s subsequent EP, ‘Dear My Dear’, released later that same year, further solidified his standing as a solo artist, showcasing his versatility and musical prowess.

Beyond his solo endeavors, Chen is also a pivotal member of the subunit EXO-CBX, alongside fellow members Xiumin and Baekhyun. The trio, known for their dynamic performances and harmonious vocals, garnered widespread acclaim before embarking on a new chapter outside of their previous agency, SM Entertainment. Despite the challenges they faced, including contractual disputes, Chen, Xiumin, and Baekhyun remain united in their passion for music and their commitment to the EXO legacy.

With his solo comeback on the horizon and the promise of new musical horizons to explore, Chen continues to captivate audiences with his distinctive voice and unwavering dedication to his craft. As fans eagerly await the arrival of “DOOR,” anticipation mounts for what promises to be another unforgettable chapter in Chen’s illustrious career.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Chanyeol Donates 20M Won to Snail of Love for Children’s Day

EXO’s Chanyeol continues to demonstrate his unwavering commitment to philanthropy and social responsibility, as evidenced by his recent donation to Snail of Love of 20 million won to support hearing-impaired children in celebration of Children’s Day. This act of generosity serves as a testament to Chanyeol’s compassion and dedication to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

Snail of Love Receives Generous Donation from EXO’s Chanyeol on Children’s Day

The funds donated by Chanyeol will play a crucial role in providing essential support and resources for hearing-impaired children, with a focus on initiatives such as cochlear implant surgery, speech rehabilitation treatment, and the provision of hearing aid devices. These interventions are instrumental in improving the quality of life and enhancing the opportunities available to children with hearing impairments, empowering them to thrive and reach their full potential.

“I am happy and grateful to be able to give a meaningful gift on Children’s Day this year, just like last year. I hope that through cochlear implant surgery, hearing-impaired children will grow up healthy while being able to hear the sounds of the world,” Chanyeol said.

Chanyeol’s commitment to supporting hearing-impaired children extends beyond this single donation, as he has established a longstanding relationship with the organization Snail of Love. Since January 2021, Chanyeol has been a regular sponsor, consistently contributing to initiatives aimed at assisting hearing-impaired individuals. In addition to his monthly contributions, Chanyeol has gone above and beyond by providing six additional sponsorships, further exemplifying his dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need.

Through his acts of kindness and generosity, Chanyeol serves as an inspiring role model, encouraging others to lend a helping hand and make a positive impact in their communities. His ongoing commitment to philanthropy underscores the importance of using one’s platform and resources to uplift others and create a more inclusive and compassionate society. As Chanyeol’s legacy of giving continues to grow, he leaves behind a legacy of kindness and compassion that will undoubtedly inspire others for generations to come.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Suho 3rd Solo EP ‘1 to 3’ To Feature RED VELVET Wendy Collaboration

EXO’s Suho, a beloved figure in the K-pop world, has set hearts aflutter with the announcement of his much-anticipated solo comeback. May 3 marked a thrilling moment for fans as Suho unveiled the teaser poster and schedule for his upcoming third mini-album, aptly titled ‘1 to 3.’

Suho of EXO Announces New Mini Album ‘1 to 3’

With the album slated for release on May 31 at 6 p.m. KST, anticipation is reaching fever pitch as fans eagerly count down the days until they can immerse themselves in Suho’s latest musical offering. Known for his captivating vocals, charismatic stage presence, and introspective lyrics, Suho’s solo endeavors have consistently garnered attention and acclaim, and ‘1 to 3’ promises to be no exception.

The teaser poster exudes an air of mystery and sophistication, hinting at the artistic direction and themes that Suho will explore in his new music. It also offers some insight into how he prepared for the solo comeback. As fans dissect every detail, the excitement mounts, fueled by the prospect of experiencing Suho’s creative evolution and musical growth.

Suho Confirms Collaboration with Red Velvet’s Wendy ‘Cheese’

Adding to the anticipation is the revelation that one of the tracks, titled “Cheese,” will feature a collaboration with none other than Red Velvet’s Wendy. The song will serve as the second title track of the mini-album. Additionally, the tantalizing partnership between two powerhouse vocalists has sparked immense excitement, with fans eagerly awaiting the opportunity to witness their harmonious blend of voices.

As Suho embarks on this new chapter of his solo career, EXO fans are brimming with anticipation for what lies ahead. With ‘1 to 3’ poised to showcase Suho’s artistry in its purest form, May 31 promises to be a momentous day for EXO-Ls and music lovers alike. Stay tuned as Suho takes center stage once again, ready to captivate hearts and leave a lasting impression with his mesmerizing music.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

aespa, ATEEZ, ITZY and More Confirmed for K-WAVE Concert Inkigayo

The unveiling of the first performer lineup for the eagerly anticipated ‘K-Wave Concert Inkigayo’ on May 2 sent waves of excitement rippling through the K-pop community. With an illustrious array of talent including aespa, ATEEZ, ITZY and more, fans can expect a night filled with electrifying performances and unforgettable moments.

‘K-WAVE Concert Inkigayo’ Reveals First Set of Performers

Among the headliners announced are some of the hottest acts in the industry, each known for their unique style, infectious energy, and chart-topping hits. Leading the pack is aespa, the sensational girl group who have been captivating audiences with their futuristic concepts and dynamic performances. They were recently confirmed to release their first full album ‘Armageddon’ later this month and have just released the first teasers for their upcoming LP.

Joining them are ATEEZ, the dynamic boy band renowned for their powerful choreography and genre-defying sound. ITZY, the chart-topping girl group known for their bold charisma and empowering anthems, will also take the stage, promising to deliver a show-stopping performance. NMIXX, the highly anticipated rookie group, will make their mark with their debut performance, showcasing their talent and potential to become the next big thing in K-pop.

Rounding out the lineup are Stray Kids, the genre-bending boy band known for their boundary-pushing music and electrifying stage presence, and ZEROBASEONE, the rising stars who are also set to captivate audiences with their infectious charm and undeniable talent.

Set to take place on June 2 at the prestigious INSPIRE Arena in Incheon, ‘K-Wave Concert Inkigayo’ also promises to be a night to remember for fans of K-pop worldwide. With more lineup announcements on the horizon, anticipation is building as fans also eagerly await the opportunity to witness their favorite artists come together for an unforgettable celebration of Korean music and culture. Stay tuned for updates as the countdown to the ultimate K-pop extravaganza begins!

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ADOR CEO Reportedly Requested Authority to Terminate NewJeans’ Exclusive Contracts with HYBE

The Korean entertainment industry, known for its intricacies and power dynamics, recently witnessed a significant development surrounding CEO Min Hee Jin of ADOR and her request for authority over the termination of NewJeans’ exclusive contracts.

Did Min Hee Jin Try to Override HYBE in Terminating NewJeans’ Exclusive Contracts?

The request sheds light on the complexities of contract negotiations and power struggles within entertainment conglomerates.

Min Hee Jin‘s request to amend her shareholder’s contract with HYBE Labels, ADOR’s parent company, emerged against the backdrop of negotiations from the previous year, notably concerning put back options and the issuance of new shares. These negotiations, which took place in February, laid the groundwork for Min Hee Jin’s subsequent bid for unilateral authority over contract terminations.

Traditionally, decisions regarding the exclusive contracts of major artists are subject to shareholders’ meetings, ensuring transparency and collective decision-making. However, Min Hee Jin’s purported request seeks to circumvent this process, granting her sole discretion over terminating NewJeans members’ contracts without consultation with the board or interference from HYBE.

Min Hee Jin’s Ongoing Battle

The move has raised eyebrows within the industry, as it diverges from established norms and potentially undermines corporate governance principles. With Min Hee Jin, Vice President Shin, and board member Kim constituting ADOR’s current shareholder’s board, HYBE’s substantial ownership stake affords it significant influence over board dynamics and decision-making processes.

HYBE’s rejection of Min Hee Jin’s proposal underscores the tension brewing between the ADOR CEO and the conglomerate. Suspicions of Min Hee Jin’s alleged intentions to orchestrate an “exit” strategy without HYBE’s involvement further exacerbate the rift, prompting the conglomerate to assert its control and safeguard its interests.

The unfolding saga underscores the intricate power dynamics at play in the Korean entertainment industry, where corporate maneuvers and contractual negotiations often intersect with creative endeavors. As the industry continues to evolve, stakeholders grapple with balancing artistic autonomy with corporate oversight, navigating a landscape shaped by ambition, competition, and strategic maneuvering.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Kakao Acquisition of SM Entertainment Formally Approved by Korea Fair Trade Commission

The Korea Fair Trade Commission (FTC) has given its nod to the merger and acquisition (M&A) deal between Kakao and SM Entertainment, albeit with a watchful eye and certain conditions attached.

Korea Fair Trade Commission Approves Kakao SM Entertainment Acquisition

The approval, granted on May 2 KST, marks a significant development in the Korean music industry, as it brings together two major players under one umbrella. However, concerns regarding potential anti-competitive practices prompted the FTC to impose restrictions aimed at safeguarding market dynamics.

Kakao, renowned as a dominant force in digital music planning, production, and distribution through its flagship platform Melon, joined forces with SM Entertainment, a heavyweight in the realm of music production. The prospect of these two powerhouses merging raised eyebrows at the FTC, who feared that it could stifle competition and lead to monopolistic tendencies in the market.

The commission identified two plausible scenarios that could tilt the scales of competition unfavorably. Firstly, there’s the possibility of Kakao and SM Entertainment forming an exclusive partnership, leveraging Melon’s reach to corner the market on digital music distribution. Secondly, concerns were raised about Melon prioritizing content from its subsidiaries, potentially sidelining offerings from other entities and distorting fair competition.

The Future of SM Entertainment

To address these apprehensions, the FTC outlined stringent measures that Kakao must adhere to. Kakao is mandated to provide digital music and content to all competing streaming platforms upon request, barring any valid reasons for refusal. Moreover, the content must be furnished equitably and promptly to ensure a level playing field for all market participants.

In addition to these stipulations, a monitoring body will be instituted to keep a vigilant eye on Melon’s operations for a duration of three years. This watchdog entity will scrutinize Melon’s activities, specifically looking out for any signs of preferential treatment towards affiliated companies, thereby ensuring compliance with fair trade practices.

The FTC’s decision reflects a balancing act between fostering innovation and competition while preventing the consolidation of undue market power. By imposing these conditions, the commission aims to uphold the principles of fair competition and safeguard the interests of consumers and market players alike. As Kakao and SM Entertainment embark on this new chapter of collaboration, their adherence to these regulatory measures will be closely watched, shaping the trajectory of the Korean music industry in the years to come.

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO Suho to Participate in ‘Missing Crown Prince’ OST

Suho is set to captivate audiences once again, this time with his melodic vocals gracing the ‘Missing Crown Prince’ OST. The news confirms the EXO leader‘s commitment to his new MBN TV drama.

EXO’s Suho To Release New Song for ‘Missing Crown Prince’ OST

Titled ‘Asrai, Closer’, the OST Part sung by Suho is slated for release on May 4th at 6 PM, marking his debut as a solo artist on a drama soundtrack.

In ‘Missing Crown Prince’, Suho takes on the role of the main character, Prince Lee Gun, in this Korean-style romantic comedy drama. The series follows the antics of a crown prince who finds himself at the mercy of a woman destined to become the crown princess. As Suho immerses himself in his character’s journey, he also lends his vocals to ‘Asrai, Closer’, the theme song of Prince Lee Gun.

‘Asrai, Closer’ promises to capture the essence of the drama, depicting the intricate emotions of Prince Lee Gun as he navigates the tumultuous waters of love and duty. The song is expected to showcase Suho’s vocal prowess and emotional depth, further enhancing the narrative of ‘Missing Crown Prince’.

Suho’s foray into solo OST singing comes as no surprise, given his multifaceted talents as both a singer and actor. Previously acclaimed for his stable acting skills in dramas like ‘Hip-Hop King’, Suho continues to expand his repertoire with his role in ‘Missing Crown Prince’, further solidifying his status as a versatile performer.

As anticipation mounts for the release of ‘Asrai, Closer’, fans eagerly await the opportunity to immerse themselves in Suho’s soulful vocals and the captivating storyline of ‘Missing Crown Prince’. With its heartfelt melodies and poignant lyrics, the OST promises to leave a lasting impression, adding an extra layer of depth to the drama’s narrative and further cementing Suho’s place as a rising star in both the music and acting realms.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWICE’s Dahyun Confirmed To Make Acting Debut

It’s officially happening: Dahyun is set for her acting debut! The exciting news of Ha Seok Jin and the TWICE member teaming up for the upcoming independent feature film “Sprint” has generated a buzz of anticipation among fans and cinephiles alike. The project, helmed by director Lee Seung Hoon, promises to deliver a heartwarming narrative that resonates with viewers through its exploration of dreams, determination, and self-discovery.

JYP Entertainment Confirms TWICE’s Dahyun’s Acting Debut

Dahyun’s acting debut in “Sprint” was confirmed by a source from JYP Entertainment. As she prepares to embark on this new cinematic journey, fans eagerly anticipate seeing her bring her talent and charisma to the screen in a role that promises to be both challenging and rewarding.

In “Sprint,” Ha Seok Jin is set to portray Kang Goo Young, a character whose story mirrors the triumphs and tribulations of real-life athlete Kim Kuk Young. Kang Goo Young’s journey from breaking Korea’s 100-meter track record to grappling with the challenges of his fading glory promises to be a compelling narrative arc, offering audiences a glimpse into the complexities of ambition, success, and regret.

Also joining Ha Seok Jin and TWICE’s Dahyun in the cast is Lee Shin Young, who will portray the role of Seung Yeol, a passionate sprinter with dreams of his own.

When To Expect ‘Sprint’

Lee Shin Young’s portrayal of Seung Yeol’s journey of self-discovery and determination is poised to add depth and nuance to the film’s exploration of the human spirit and its capacity for resilience in the face of adversity.

As production gears up to begin filming in May, anticipation for “Sprint” also continues to build, fueled by the promise of a poignant and uplifting cinematic experience. Director Lee Seung Hoon’s vision for the film, coupled with the talent and dedication of its ensemble cast, also suggests that “Sprint” has all the makings of a memorable and impactful cinematic offering that will leave a lasting impression on audiences.

With its focus on the universal themes of hope, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams, “Sprint” also has the potential to resonate with viewers of all backgrounds, inspiring them to chase their aspirations with unwavering determination and courage. As the film begins to take shape, fans eagerly await its release, eager to embark on a cinematic journey that promises to be as exhilarating as it is uplifting.

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