Author: Kpop News Writer

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE, Kakao, and SM Accelerate North American Expansion

HYBE

South Korea’s entertainment powerhouses, HYBE, Kakao Entertainment, and SM Entertainment, are making aggressive moves to expand their global reach, with a particular focus on the lucrative North American market. Central to these strategies are the launch of new audition programs and the establishment of strategic partnerships with prominent North American record labels.

Scooter Braun Is Now The Sole CEO of HYBE America

HYBE recently announced a new global girl group audition program named The Debut: Dream Academy. From an overwhelming 120,000 global applicants, the program will spotlight 20 finalists, primarily through SNS platforms. This move comes after nearly two years of HYBE’s strategic planning for international market entry in collaboration with a North American record label. Having established HYBE America in April 2019, the company is expanding its North American presence through subsidiaries like Schoolboy Records, SB Project, and Big Machine Label Group.

Similarly, SM Entertainment and Kakao Entertainment are ramping up their global strategies. Since Kakao Entertainment’s acquisition of a majority stake in SM Entertainment in March, the two have been leveraging their combined strengths. Last August, they launched a joint corporation in North America, aiming to capitalize on SM Entertainment’s global IP and production capabilities, along with Kakao Entertainment’s vast music and album distribution network. 

All eyes are on HYBE, Kakao, and SM

Jang Yoon-joong, the CEO of Kakao Entertainment America, stated, “Through the North American integrated corporation, we aim to accelerate the global expansion of SM artists and Kakao Entertainment in music, artist development, and IP planning, production, and distribution.”

K-POP INDUSTRY, THE TASKS AHEAD AS KAKAO TAKES SM

With significant investments at stake, all eyes are on HYBE and Kakao/SM. The two rivals may soon find themselves competing for acquisitions in the U.S. market and beyond, potentially inflating the selling prices of music companies. Analysts remain optimistic about their prospects, citing solid cash flows from their Korean acts. However, concerns arise as both HYBE and SM’s stocks trade at high multiples relative to earnings, making them vulnerable to market downturns. Their earnings often fall below estimates, further increasing their vulnerability. But with the music industry consistently showing strong earnings growth, investor cash for acquisitions will likely remain abundant for now.

These strategic moves by HYBE, Kakao Entertainment, and SM Entertainment indicate a significant shift in their vision. They aim not just to grow the K-pop market in Korea but also to establish a strong foothold in the U.S., the epicenter of the global pop music industry. As industry experts note the shift of the primary K-pop consumer base from Asia to North America, it will be intriguing to see how these entertainment giants’ strategies will further elevate K-pop’s global stature. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: HYBE, Kakao, and SM are ramping up their global strategies. Sources: Korea JoongAng Daily, Pinterest, and Wikimedia Commons.

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LATEST STORIES

Faker Praised for Insightful Take on the Legitimacy of Esports

Despite a common perception that dismisses esports as a mere pastime, Korea’s most celebrated esports athlete, Lee “Faker” Sang-hyeok, offers a compelling counterargument. Following the Korean League of Legends (LoL) national team’s gold medal triumph at the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games, Faker shared his insights. The team clinched a dominant 2-0 victory over Taiwan in the finals, solidifying their title of champions and securing a coveted exemption from military service.

Interestingly, LoL was introduced as a demonstration sport at the 2018 Jakarta-Palembang Asian Games. Its competitiveness and immense popularity led to its recognition as a medal event in the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games. However, debates surrounding military service exemptions for gold medalists continue to cast shadows over this recognition.

LOL legend Faker on Asian Games facilities and recovery

During a post-victory press conference in Hangzhou, a reporter posed a pointed question to Faker about the legitimacy of esports, essentially asking, “Is esports really a sport?” Faker confidently responded, emphasizing the positive influence esports have on individuals. 

He said, “When people think of sports, they often envision intense physical activity. But I believe the real essence of a sport lies in the positive impact it has on individuals during the rigorous process of competition and preparation. If the competitive element serves as an inspiration to people, that, in my opinion, captures the true essence of a sport.”

Netizens lauded Faker for his eloquent response

Like any other sport, LoL demands constant effort and training, especially with the need to learn new champions and strategies in an ever-evolving meta. Through this perspective, it’s clear that LoL meets the criteria of a sport. Faker candidly addressed those who harbor negative views about esports.

Recognizing LoL‘s status as one of Korea’s most popular games, Faker suggested parents use LoL matches to bridge the generation gap. He suggested that watching LoL matches with children could offer a unique bonding experience, even if the older generation might not fully grasp the game’s intricacies. This approach not only promotes understanding and acceptance of esports and fosters shared experiences between generations.

LIVE – Asiad 19 | League Of Legend | South Korea vs Chinese Taipei | Final

Korean netizens lauded Faker for his eloquent response. Comments ranged from acknowledging the truth in his words, praising his articulation, to even considering watching LoL matches with their children based on his suggestion. Many expressed that people need to adapt to the changing world, and some felt the reporter’s question stemmed from genuine curiosity rather than malice.

Faker‘s words resonated with many, further solidifying his position as not just an esports icon, but also a thought leader in the industry. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Faker is a very talented player and a thought leader in esports. Source: X/@faker. 

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Ex-BIGBANG Member T.O.P’s SpaceX Mission Postponed

In December 2022, the world learned that K-pop idol and ex-BIGBANG member T.O.P was set to be among eight influential figures chosen for the “DearMoon” project. This initiative, a collaboration between billionaire Yusaku Maezawa and Elon Musk’s SpaceX, aimed to send its participants on the first civilian mission to the moon. The selection criteria centered on people who could make a positive impact on humanity. Originally slated for 2023, the mission now faces an indefinite delay.

A media outlet reported the postponement of the “DearMoon” project on October 1. While the exact reasons remain undisclosed, Kim Sung Soo, a space exploration professor at Kyunghee University, provided some insights. He said, “The ‘DearMoon’ project is the first civilian project aiming to fly participants to the moon. The spacecraft, Starship, developed by SpaceX, was supposed to circle the moon for about six days this year. However, due to delays in SpaceX’s development of Starship, the mission will likely not proceed this year and might take a few more years.”

Despite this setback, the “DearMoon” project remains on the horizon, and fans hope that T.O.P will still get a chance to participate. 

Meet the dearMoon Crew – TOP (Choi Seung Hyun) | トップ (チェ・スンヒョン)

T.O.P responds to fans

This update follows T.O.P‘s announcement some months back about his departure from BIGBANG. Responding to a fan’s comment on Instagram, the 35-year-old idol wrote, “I’ve already withdrawn.” He added, “I’ve already told you that I’m leaving and I’m facing a new chapter in my life since last year.” Despite his departure, T.O.P continues to be musically active, hinting at ongoing album work in a post showing him at a music workstation. He’s also in the cast of Squid Game season two.

YG Entertainment, the label that launched BIGBANG in 2006, has yet to comment on T.O.P‘s recent statements. In the past, they said T.O.P “will always participate in BIGBANG‘s activities whenever he is able.” Notably, in April 2022, BIGBANG released the song “Still Life,” in which T.O.P participated, even after leaving YG.

Known as the Kings of K-pop, BIGBANG played a pivotal role in propagating the Korean wave globally, with iconic hits like “Fantastic Baby” and “Bang Bang Bang.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Looks like T.O.P will have to wait a little longer to go into space. Source: X/@tang__kira.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Chinese ARMY Celebrate ‘Jimtober’ with ‘JIMIN SEOM’

In anticipation of BTS’ Jimin‘s birthday on October 13th, Sevit Island is set to undergo a spectacular transformation into a themed park named “JIMIN SEOM.” The announcement came from Jimin‘s Chinese fanbase, MOONRISING CHINA, via social media, stating that they are organizing a large-scale event on the island to commemorate Jimin‘s special day.

Located downstream of the Banpo Bridge in Seoul is Sevit Island, an artificial island complex. Fans will decorate it in celebration of Jimin’s birthday on October 13 and 14. From 10:13 AM to 10:13 PM on both days, visitors can expect a plethora of activities and attractions.

 To kick off the festivities, a towering six-meter balloon cake will greet fans at the entrance. Additionally, a 40-meter-long banner highlighting Jimin‘s journey and song lyrics will be displayed alongside 24 bridge flags, allowing fans to reminisce about his illustrious 10-year career. They’ll also set up a photo booth, an inflatable, and a balloon moon at the center of the bridge. As fans cross the bridge to the island, a massive 20 by 10-meter banner awaits, welcoming them with open arms.

@chimjim___13

Jimin’s Chinese fanbase @JIMINMoonRising has organized a large scale Jimin-themed event in Some Sevit, the world’s first floating cultural space located on the Han River The event will feature a variety of activities including huge banners, Inflatable dolls, photo booths, & more #CapCut #fy #JIMIN #BTSJIMIN #jimin #ジミン #지민 #bts #kpopfyp #ThisIsJimin

♬ Sparks Fly (Taylor’s Version) – Taylor Swift

Jimin enjoys unwavering support

MOONRISING CHINA’s celebrations don’t stop there. They’ve also collaborated with leading beauty brand Olive Young. This collaboration yielded screen advertisements in 2,500 stores nationwide from October 2 to 15. Moreover, a cafe near HYBE will display a large banner from October 7 to 15. Bus stop advertisements will run from October 12 to November 11.

Fans, having eagerly awaited Jimin‘s birthday for a year, have painted towns across the nation in “Jimtober” hues. Through global voting sites, they swept all ten categories in the October birthday polls. This further amplified the festive atmosphere with these unprecedented events.

Releasing his debut solo album FACE a decade after BTS‘ debut and achieving unparalleled success domestically and internationally, Jimin continues to enjoy unwavering support from fans worldwide. This grand “Jimtober” celebration is a testament to his enduring impact and the deep bond he shares with his fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This year, Jimin’s Chinese fans will go all-out for his 28th birthday. Source: Weverse.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Wins Five Trophies at The Fact Music Awards

BTS, the global K-pop sensation, clinched five top honors at The Fact Music Awards (TFMA) on October 2, reinforcing their dominance in the music industry. These achievements were announced ahead of the grand award ceremony set for October 10. The group’s wins underscore their global appeal and the unwavering dedication of their fans.

Jimin and V, two of BTS‘ members, also received individual accolades. Jimin secured the Idol Plus Popularity Award with a staggering 36% of the votes. This victory made him the first Korean soloist to achieve such a feat in K-pop history. Given that the Idol Plus Popularity Award is determined entirely by fan votes, Jimin‘s triumph speaks volumes about his immense popularity. Fans reportedly created multiple accounts to cast more votes for their favorite artist, with 200 lucky individuals set to receive invitations to the award show.

V‘s R&B track “Slow Dancing” from his debut solo album Layover was recognized as the Best Fall Music. BTS’ Min Yoongi, also known as Agust D or SUGA, was nominated for the Idol Plus Popularity Award as well. The group’s other wins include Best Music Summer for “Take Two,” Fan N Star Choice Group, and Most Voted Artist.

@kissedcharm

Congratulations🎉💜 #bangtansonyeondan방탄소년단 #bts #army #ot7 #fyp

♬ bts mashup by minlee – minlee 민리

BTS’ bond and legacy remain strong

The Fact Music Awards 2023 will take place at the Incheon Namdong Gymnasium in Seoul. While it remains uncertain which BTS members will grace the event, fans are buzzing with anticipation. Organized by Fan N Star and The Fact, this award-giving body celebrates Korean artists’ contributions to the Hallyu wave. Winners are chosen based on data from Circle (formerly Gaon), fan votes, and a panel of experts. Several categories are under the Fan N Star banner, with winners primarily determined by fan votes.

International fans have multiple platforms to watch the awards show. It will be broadcast on IdolPlus in Indonesia, Malaysia, South Korea, and the Philippines. In Japan, viewers can tune in to dTV or MusicOn!. KOOKY will air it in both Latin and North America. Meanwhile, European and Middle Eastern audiences can catch it on TMA’s YouTube channel.

Although three members—j-hope, Jin, and SUGA—are currently serving in the military while the rest are pursuing solo endeavors, the group’s bond and legacy remain strong. The fact that they’re still winning awards despite being on hiatus is a testament to their enduring impact and the love of their fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: When BTS sang ‘the best is yet to come,’ they weren’t kidding. Congrats, boys! Source: X/@bts_bighit.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ V Shares Thoughts on Life with Melon Radio Talks’ Audience

BTS‘ Kim Taehyung, also known as V, sat down for an interview with Melon Radio, South Korea’s premier music and streaming platform, on October 1. Throughout the conversation, V touched upon various facets of his life, from his illustrious career to personal reflections, shedding light on how his choices have shaped and inspired him over the years.

V‘s thoughts on the value of taking things slow were a highlight of the interview. He said, “Slowness does not mean laziness or the inability to accelerate at a fast pace. It’s about having the ability not to rush through time, not to be pushed around by the rush of time, and not to lose yourself.” Drawing inspiration from French philosopher Pierre Sansot’s Principles on Slow Life, V emphasized the importance of savoring moments. He shared personal anecdotes of leisurely walks, saying, “I walked leisurely on the path I usually tread. Looking at the sky, staring at familiar places with fresh eyes, observing the ceiling while lying down before sleep, and taking long, deep breaths.”

Continuing on the theme of slowness, V believes that a relaxed approach allows one to appreciate life’s nuances and discover hidden gems. “Being a bit more relaxed helps you observe your daily life more closely, where previously you might have felt anxious about being left behind. Simultaneously, it aids in discovering the unnoticed sparkling moments. Some things are beautiful because they are slow,” he added.

On a more personal note, V expressed his gratitude towards the ARMY for supporting him through the years. “I’m truly grateful that you’re there. We support each other, laugh and cry together, cheer together, and get moved together. We even party together. We’ve shared all these moments, right? If it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t be here now.”

World domination, V style

In related news, Hanteo Chart unveiled its September standings at 10 AM on October 1. The results highlighted V‘s prominence as he clinched the top position in the September World Chart, amassing a score of 15,793.62 points.

This World Chart, an important part of the Hanteo Chart, aggregates global metrics for K-pop acts. It encompasses aspects like album sales, streaming counts, certifications, social media engagement, media coverage, and more. V‘s album Layover made significant strides, especially in the album and media segments. Living up to his distinction as the first Korean soloist to surpass 2.1 million in initial sales, V‘s performance in the album segment was commendable. IVE and BLACKPINK followed suit, securing the second and third positions in the World Chart.

Furthermore, V dominated the September album rankings. Achieving a score of 2,507,002.80 points, which translates to sales of 2,141,557 units, V not only established a new benchmark for a Korean solo artist’s initial sales but also reigned supreme in the monthly tally. RIIZE and Boy Next Door trailed behind, securing the second and third positions. They scored 1,041,771.00 (sales of 1,041,771 units) and 566,764.06 points (sales of 489,044 units) respectively.

V‘s ascent to the pinnacle of the music world is a testament to the adage “slow and steady wins the race.” His introspective approach to life and music proves that taking time to savor every step can lead to unparalleled success. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V has been busy. He recently made several appearances on Melon Radio Talks, including this one. Source: X/@bts_bighit.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jungkook Jokingly Calls ARMY ‘Pervs’ on Stationhead

Jungkook, BTS‘ golden maknae, recently had fans in stitches with his playful banter on Stationhead. The singer, celebrated for his mesmerizing stage presence and soaring vocals, didn’t hold back when ARMYs, his dedicated fandom, made a cheeky request.

When fans playfully asked him to film a TikTok video without a shirt, Jungkook‘s witty comeback had everyone laughing. “Can you film a TikTok shirtless?” they inquired. To which he replied, “Wouldn’t that be kind of difficult? Anyway, I was not wearing a shirt in the music video. Let me wear one when I’m home. Let’s not be like that.” 

He then jokingly added, “There’re a lot of pervs among ARMYs too, I see. ARMYs also have evil minds inside them. I’ve never seen ARMYs say such things so confidently, it’s the first time seeing this.” This amusing exchange quickly made its way to various social media platforms, with fans sharing the voice clip on TikTok and X (formerly known as Twitter).

@jeenaa143

Not his calling Army ‘ Perv ‘ 🤣🤣 . aigoo . maka nya jangan ditunjuk body tu 🤣🤣🤣 #jungkook #jungkook_3d #bts #jeonjungkook

♬ 3D (feat. Jack Harlow) – Jung Kook & Jack Harlow

Jungkook rolled out more new material

In other news, Jungkook continued the rollout of new solo material with the release of “3D (feat. Jack Harlow)” and its remix EP titled 3D: The Remixes. This project contains four new renditions of the K-pop star’s single, including sped-up and slowed-down versions. The “A.G. Cook” remix, featuring the British DJ of the same name, stands out with its trendy feel, combining an electro-house base with a distinctive beat and incorporating EDM elements. The varied tempos of the “Sped Up” and “Slowed Down” versions offer a different atmosphere from the original, allowing listeners to experience the multi-dimensional charm of “3D.”

“3D” serves as the follow-up to Jungkook’s first solo single, “Seven.” The track, which features Latto, made a splash on the Billboard charts, crowning the Billboard Hot 100 following its release and spending 10 weeks so far on the all-genre chart. The single additionally gave Jungkook his first solo No. 1 on the tally and marked Latto’s first No. 1 on the chart. Her previous and only top five charting single was “Big Energy,” which hit No. 3 on the Hot 100.

Stay tuned for more updates on BTS and Jungkook‘s musical journey. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook’s response left fans in stitches. Source: Weverse.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Fans Call Out Taiwanese Artist for Allegedly Plagiarizing ATEEZ

ATEEZ shares a behind-the-scene photo from their web series 'Wanteez.' Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

K-pop group ATEEZ draws attention online for allegedly being plagiarized once again. 

In the most recent accusation, fans called out a Taiwanese artist for his track’s drastic resemblance to “Guerilla” by ATEEZ.

On Saturday, September 30, ATINYs, the group’s fandom, were baffled when one fan brought to light that another artist was allegedly plagiarizing ATEEZ.

In a Twitter thread, the fan pointed out that the track “Kicking Your Face” by Taiwanese rapper 3WICH, had an almost identical structure with the boy group’s song “Guerilla.“

The rapper’s track was performed as part of the final episode of the music show Music Maker. According to the fan, even the stage design looked similar to the display of ATEEZ’ Anchor Concert in Seoul.

Hearing the fans’ clamor, the show responded with a brief statement. “The program team is in process of clarification with the contestant. Any relevant information and updates will be released when we return to office,” they said.

Other instances that ATEEZ were allegedly plagiarized

Plagiarism is no longer a new thing to ATEEZ and ATINYs. Since their debut in 2018, the boy group has been embroiled in controversies with numerous artists allegedly stealing their acts. 

First in the list and presumably the most famous controversy would be the case of Vata and his “New Thing” choreography. Notably, the track by ZICO gained global attention as part of the MNET show Street Man Fighter.”

However, fans were quick to notice that one part of Vata’s choreography was similar to ATEEZ’ signature step in their 2019 hit “Say My Name.” Despite the persistent public callout, Vata did not admit to the accusations.

Aside from the choreographer, some of the group’s tracks were allegedly also stolen by other artists.

In 2022, Soyeon of (G)-IDLE was criticized for the similarities of her self-written track “Sun”, to ATEEZ’ 2019 song, “Wave.” After receiving backlash, Soyeon immediately posted an apology. 

Moreover, there were also reports of the boy group’s album covers being plagiarized. 

In the past, ATINYs have called out singer MONOPOLY for the artist’s album titled HOLYMOLY. For this incident, fans pointed out that the cover of the said album had uncanny similarities with ATEEZ’ Treasure Epilogue: Action to Answer album cover. Following the issue, MONOPOLY changed his cover later on.

Other accusations include international artists stealing concepts from the eight-member band. With the long list of “copied” acts, some fans are now playfully calling ATEEZ as the most plagiarized K-Pop group.

https://twitter.com/odetobangteez/status/1708142048979869819

ATINYs frustration towards the repetitive plagiarism

With the repetitive alleged plagiarism towards the boy group, ATINYs have brought their frustration to social media by trending the hashtag #RespectATEEZ.

“Can people leave ATEEZ alone and stop stealing their music?! Plagiarism is never and will never be okay,” one fan said. Meanwhile, another fan stated: “You can’t outdo the doer.”

 

Other ATINYs also demanded the group’ agency, KQ Entertainment, to make the necessary actions. “Please come out and stop this once and for all, for our boys and for the music industry,” one fan wrote. 

https://twitter.com/miIkimars/status/1708151560554102902

As of writing, there is no official statement yet from the agency.

Featured image: ATEEZ shares a behind-the-scene photo from their web series ‘Wanteez.’ Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Jung Hae In in Talks to Star in Rom-Com ‘Some and Shopping’

Jung Hae In updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jung Hae In

Haeiness, are you ready for this? Actor Jung Hae In just might finally unleash his comedic skills as he is in talks to star in his first ever romantic-comedy series Some and Shopping.

What we know so far about ‘Some and Shopping’

On Monday, October 2, the actor’s agency, FNC Entertainment, released a statement saying that Jung Hae In received an offer for an upcoming romantic comedy drama.

“Jung Hae In received a casting offer from the production team of the new drama Some and Shopping. It is one of the projects he is currently considering,” the label said.

In Some and Shopping, Hae In might play the role of Lee Hae Seok, a CEO of a cosmetics company and a home shopping host with absolute principles.

If Hae In accepts the role, it will remarkably be the first romantic comedy in his almost-decade-long acting career. 

Prior to the offer, the actor already opened up about his desire to star in a romcom. “I have never done a rom-com before and I want to give it a try,” the actor shared in a previous interview.

A walk through the acting career of Jung Hae In

In 2014, Hae In made his acting debut with a supporting role in the series Bride of the Century. Since then, he appeared in numerous dramas including Blood, Night Light, Prison Playbook, and many more.

In 2017, Hae In gained recognition in the drama While You Were Sleeping starring Lee Jong Suk and Bae Suzy. There, the actor infected fans with the “second lead syndrome” for his role as policeman Han Woo Tak. 

After the success of While You Were Sleeping, the actor finally landed his first lead role in the 2018 melodrama Something in the Rain. There, he starred alongside veteran actress Son Ye Jin. Said drama bagged the Best Drama Series in the Asian Television Awards. 

Furthermore, Hae In continued to establish his versatility as an actor in his next projects. From being a loveable pharmacist in One Spring Night, to being a North Korean agent in Snowdrop, the actor proved that he can ace a variety of roles.

Most recently, the 35 year-old actor returned as a calm soldier in the second season of D.P., which tackled the undesirable nature inside the military.

Although the actor has tried various genres in the past, romantic-comedy is something he is yet to conquer. With his appearance in Some and Shopping currently in talks, fans are already expecting to witness Hae In’s charm in a new light.

Featured image: Jung Hae In updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jung Hae In

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Watch: LE SSERAFIM Bonds With ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Contestants

'The Dream: Debut Academy' contestants pose with LE SSERAFIM and Bang Si Hyuk. Credit: YouTube/HYBE Labels

While it’s only been a year since LE SSERAFIM’s debut, the quintet already proved that they are ready to be seniors of the next HYBE girl group formed through the reality series The  Debut: Dream Academy.

On Monday, October 2, the survival competition unveiled its latest episode, featuring the surprise visit of LE SSERAFIM.

At the start of the video, Chaewon, Yunjin, Sakura, Kazuha, and Eunchae appeared as undercover staff while the trainees filmed Tiktok content. After a few minutes, the trainees could not hide their astonishment upon seeing the idols reveal their faces. The girls were also surprised that Yunjin knew all of their names.

For the episode’s mission, the trainees were tasked to cover two of the girl group’s songs. Composed of four to five trainees each, two groups performed “ANTIFRAGILE” in front of the original singers. 

“Thank you for working on it so hard. I could feel the powerful energy,” Chaewon remarked. “Everyone’s facial expression was great. It was amazing,” the leader added.

Next, two more groups showcased their “FEARLESS” performances. “I could clearly see what moves you were showing,” Eunchae commented. Kazuha added that the contestants were able to show their charms, too.

LE SSERAFIM’s warm advice for the dreamers

After the performances, LE SSERAFIM and the trainees sat down for a little chit chat.

First, trainee Sophia voiced out her worries about maintaining friendship with the other trainees, despite knowing that not all of them are making it to the final debut lineup. Yunjin then advised them to do their best individually and still continue rooting for each other. “I think goodbyes are unfortunately inevitable but I think that is a part of growing,” she said.

On the other hand, one contestant asked how Kazuha is able to look good while dancing on stage. Kazuha then answered, “I think the most important thing is to enjoy the stage.” Additionally, the singer also advised them to expand their horizons by experiencing different genres of dance instead of focusing on just one.

Another contestant mentioned that she was experiencing a language barrier and wondered how the Japanese members Sakura and Kazuha overcame it. In response, Sakura said that language is not a big problem if the members have a connection with each other.

Bang PD visits ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ too

Just while the girls were having a serious conversation, the trainees were caught off guard with another surprise visit from the HYBE Chairman himself, Bang Si Hyuk.

Bang PD first asked about the trainees’ trip to South Korea. Then, the trainees said that they enjoyed the Korean food and that they wished to visit Lotte World, which the producer generously granted.

Later on, trainee Karlee asked the producer about the most important thing to remember for aspiring artists. To which Bang PD provided a heartwarming answer.

“Before you become an artist, you should know what you really want to be,” he said. “From my perspective, you should love music itself, performing on stage, and making the fans happy.”

Ending on a good note, the trainees took a group photo with the LE SERRAFIM members and Bang PD. 

Featured image: ‘The Dream: Debut Academy’ contestants pose with LE SSERAFIM and Bang Si Hyuk. Credit: YouTube/HYBE Labels

 

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