Author: Kpop News Writer

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TXT Fuels Fans’ Speculations With New Concept Film and Photos

TXT

TOMORROW X TOGETHER, popularly known as TXT, is gearing up for a sensational comeback. Their recently unveiled concept photos have ignited fan speculations and theories about the themes of their upcoming album, The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL Concept Clip ‘REALITY’

The REALITY photos showcase a more somber and intense side of the band. Members are wearing black, often standing in the rain. Umbrellas feature prominently, sometimes shielding the members, while at other times, they gaze pensively at the camera, letting the raindrops fall upon them. Soobin stands out with a lip ring, enhancing the gothic ambiance. One of his photos says, “Stand tall, walk tall.” Yeonjun is captured dancing in the rain, donning a black blazer and dungarees. Each member’s concept photos include a daytime shot, a nighttime image under tungsten lighting, a close-up, and a black-and-white photo.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL Concept Clip ‘MELANCHOLY’

TXT got a new pet for this album

Next, TXT dropped a second set of concept photos titled MELANCHOLY. These images highlight the band’s distinctive visual style and charisma. The photos exude an intriguing ambiance in a warehouse filled with instruments and an outdoor scene adorned with ferns and flowers. Notably, some images feature the members posing with a dog, leading fans to speculate about the album’s musical direction. One fan theorized a connection between the dog and the time “5:53,” referencing their single “Blue Hour.”

The inclusion of the dog in the concept photos has sparked fervent discussions among fans. One fan commented, “Why do I think there’s a reason they used a wolfdog, not just a dog? ‘5:53’ is the hour between ‘dog and wolf.’ There’s a French expression, “L’heure entre chien et loup.” It refers to an indistinguishable time ‘between a dog and a wolf,’ and it is neither day nor night. There are so many references here. I did some research, and a wolfdog looks different from a husky.” 

Another fan added, “Entre chien et loup”? L’heure bleue literally means ‘blue hour.’ It’s 5:53 all over again.” The number 5:53 holds significance as it refers to TXT’s single “Blue Hour.” The song’s Korean title, “5시 53분의 하늘에서 발견한 너와 나,” refers to 5:53 PM, which is the golden hour in Seoul during October.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL Concept Clip ‘CLARITY’

A more serene and hopeful vibe

The CLARITY concept photos present a more serene and hopeful vibe. The members are seen enjoying each other’s company against a stunning orange sky. These visuals, when compared to the darker tones of MELANCHOLY and REALITY, are different in a refreshing way. The members are captured on a rooftop, looking up at the sky, reminiscent of their previous group pictures from The Dream Chapter: ETERNITY era. The outfits, especially the plaid print, were appreciated by fans, with many pointing out their resemblance to their Lollapalooza stage costumes.

TXT‘s latest concept visuals successfully ignited fans’ curiosity and speculations, setting the stage for what promises to be a memorable comeback. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: TXT’s fans can hardly wait for the album, especially after all these intriguing teasers! Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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Rumors Involving BTS’ Jungkook and Unidentified Woman Go Viral on Weibo

K-pop is no stranger to rumors, and BTS, one of the genre’s most prominent groups, is often at the center of various speculations. On September 30, Weibo, a popular Chinese social media platform, was abuzz with a video that many claimed featured BTS‘ Jungkook with an unidentified woman. The video’s uploader went further, suggesting the woman might be pregnant. In what looks like an upscale apartment in Brunnen Cheongdam, the footage shows a man resembling Jungkook being intimate with a young woman.

The video led to a flurry of reactions from fans and netizens alike. Some dismissed the video, attributing the man’s resemblance to mere coincidence. After careful scrutiny, others believed it was the beloved BTS member. Their conviction was bolstered by certain elements in the video, such as furniture that eerily matched those seen in Jungkook‘s live broadcasts. A sofa, a lamp, and a Doberman resembling Jungkook’s beloved Bam were among the similarities.

But the rumor mill didn’t stop at Weibo. The video quickly migrated to Twitter, where it amassed a staggering 13 million views in a short span. Amidst the chaos and speculations, the ARMY, BTS’ dedicated fandom, showcased their unwavering support for Jungkook. Many took it upon themselves to dissect the video, searching for inconsistencies. Their findings? The video was likely not genuine. They pointed out the video’s questionable quality and raised doubts about the authenticity of the house setup, suggesting it might have been staged by detractors aiming to tarnish Jungkook‘s reputation.

@neitiekpop

JUNGKOOOK’S GIRLFRIEND? Dating rumor surrounding Jungkook goes viral on China’s Weibo #jungkook #bts #rumors #kpop #kpopers #kpopfyp #kpopedit

♬ som original – Neitie

Jungkook faced a barrage of questions

Jungkook is no stranger to rumors. Earlier this year, whispers circulating online suggested he was dating a woman from Jeju Island. However, eagle-eyed fans quickly debunked them. In previous years, he was linked to celebrities like Lee Yubi and even a tattoo artist, but these claims were laid to rest without evidence.

Yesterday, Jungkook went live on Stationhead for the second time in as many days to address the issue. Faced with a barrage of questions about the video and his relationship status, he responded with clarity and poise. He emphasized his single status and expressed appreciation for the ARMY, highlighting their unique bond. He urged netizens to respect his privacy and refrain from baseless speculations.

On a brighter note, Jungkook recently released 3D: The Remixes, an album featuring four remixes of his hit track “3D (feat. Jack Harlow).” This album has garnered significant attention, with fans worldwide streaming all four tracks. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook posted another selca on Weverse while he was on Stationhead. Source: X/@JJK_Times.

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iKON’s Bobby and DK Explain Why the Group Bolted YG Entertainment

iKON ended 2022 with a significant announcement: their departure from their longtime label, YG Entertainment. The group chose to continue their journey with all six members under a new agency, 143 Entertainment. This decision was met with overwhelming support from fans, especially as iKON intensified their releases, promotions, and schedules. One of the highlights was their world tour, which began in Seoul in May and had its first U.S. stop in New York on September 5.

While in New York, iKON had an enlightening conversation with Forbes.com’s K-pop columnist, Jeff Benjamin. They delved into why they decided to part ways with YG Entertainment. Bobby, an iKON member, shared an intriguing encounter with a representative from 143 Entertainment. This person gave them a “unique opportunity” to gain deeper insights into the entertainment industry’s intricacies.

iKON – 2023 WORLD TOUR TAKE OFF +49 Behind The Scenes

A great opportunity

Bobby elaborated, “Well, our company changed. We had this great opportunity and met this really nice guy. He was like, ‘Why don’t you join us at 143 Entertainment and have opportunities for yourselves to learn more about this industry and everything?’ YG is a fantastic company. But they took care of everything for us. All we had to do was be on stage and write music. We wanted to learn more, so we chose this path. It was challenging but a lot of fun.”

DK added his perspective, emphasizing the group’s desire to remain authentic to iKON‘s unique style and connect with their fans. He said, “We can release our albums freely and make music resembling iKON‘s colors and style. The most significant point was our wish to keep meeting our fans for a long time. We wanted to present new and exciting music to the fans.”

BOBBY 1ST MINI [ROBERT] “f” #1

iKON is eager to return to the studio

Bobby humorously addressed the delay in their U.S. tour, admitting they were unsure why it took so long. He said, “Honestly, we don’t know,” he laughed. “But we’re really happy to be here and want to thank all who came to see us.”

In September, iKON reclaimed all group trademarks from YG Entertainment in a significant move. This allowed them to release their first album under 143 Entertainment in May. Retaining a name after leaving an agency has always been challenging in K-pop. But iKON secured all 13 trademarks related to their name from their former agency, ensuring they could stay together without legal hindrances.

iKON is on tour, but they are eager to return to the studio. They are excited about their newfound freedom, which allows them to drop group and solo albums. “Next year, my solo album is coming out. I hope the fans will look out for these solo promotional activities, but we won’t stop as iKON. I just hope the fans will continue to look forward to that as we keep moving forward,” DK shared. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: According to them, the group left YG because they wanted to be more hands-on in all aspects of their careers. Source: @iKONIC_143.

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Hater Apologizes After BTS’ V and HYBE File a Lawsuit Against Them

BTS fans, aka the ARMY, recently celebrated as news broke of an apology from a hater who wrote mean things about V, also known as Kim Taehyung. This apology surfaced on the South Korean online forum, Nate Pann, on October 1 and was subsequently shared on X (formerly Twitter) with English translations the same day.

The hater identified themselves as “Kim X-young from Busan.” They said that HYBE, the agency behind BTS, had initiated legal proceedings against them due to their disparaging comments about V. Kim admitted that their skewed perception of V originated from a 2022 YouTube video mocking the idol.

The hater speaks

In their post, Kim said, “I watched those videos, and for some reason, I believed what was said to be the truth. I was not thinking. At first, I kept it private. However, I decided to participate once I saw other people express their hate toward the idol. I left hateful comments and made up rumors about him. I hated him because I believed he was a bad person that the videos made him out to be. Never did I think to stop and learn the truth about him.”

Highlighting the gravity of their actions, Kim pleaded for forgiveness, emphasizing the potential repercussions on their future, especially with an impending civil service exam. They expressed their anxiety over the lawsuit and the possibility of a tarnished record. Despite being informed that an apology might not influence the court’s decision, Kim felt compelled to apologize publicly.

He added, “I didn’t realize that my comments, based on false ideas, could hurt V. I felt terrible after I learned that nothing I thought I knew about him was true. It’d be best to apologize to him in person. But I can’t, so I’d like to at least make it public. I won’t ever leave malicious comments or spread rumors again. I won’t believe all the videos I see on YouTube. Please forgive me. I was so young. I didn’t understand how the world works. Please forgive me and help me become a new person. I’m so sorry.”

Fans remain uncertain

However, this act of contrition was met with skepticism by Korean netizens. It’s worth noting that Kim isn’t the first hater to use Nate Pann as a platform for public apologies. Notorious YouTuber, SOJANG, had previously used the forum to apologize for spreading false information about celebrities.

Fans remain uncertain about Kim’s sincerity. Nevertheless, they commend HYBE for showing no signs of leniency. Online hate continues to plague the K-pop industry, jeopardizing the mental health of idols. As a result, many management companies are now more aggressive in taking legal action against all malicious commenters.

On a brighter note, BTS‘ V, Kim Taehyung, recently clinched his first victory in the Best Fall Music category at The Fact Music Awards 2023 for his title track, “Slow Dancing,” from Layover. Being the last member of BTS to debut solo, V‘s achievement comes just a month after his solo debut. The award ceremony is set to take place on October 10 at Incheon’s Namdong Gymnasium in Seoul, South Korea. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The hater apologized, but whether his apology will be accepted or not remains to be seen. Source: X/@Purplenhuheaven.

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ENHYPEN Generates 7M USD in Media Value at Milan Fashion Week

While top brands like Fendi, Gucci, Prada, and Versace made their mark on social media during Milan Fashion Week, the celebrities in attendance truly stole the show. Among them, South Korean boy group ENHYPEN stood out, pulling in impressive numbers that underscored their global appeal.

Prada, a perennial favorite at Milan Fashion Week, has consistently topped the Lyst Index—a quarterly report ranking the hottest brands and products. Their success has been amplified by high-profile associations, notably with ENHYPEN. Prada once again led the Media Impact Value™ (MIV®) brand ranking this season. Beyond their captivating SS24 show, the brand garnered attention for its star-studded front row. Notable attendees included Emma Watson, Rosalía, Win Metawin, and, of course, ENHYPEN.

The impact of these celebrities was evident in Milan Fashion Week’s Top Five Celebrities and Top Five Influencers rankings. ENHYPEN dominated the celebrity list, generating $7 million in MIV® across various placements. The group’s influence was further highlighted by a carousel post featuring member Jungwon, which alone amassed $1 million in MIV®. Following ENHYPEN‘s impressive figure was Miss Universe 2015 Pia Wurtzbach with $3.4 million, Win Metawin with $2.9 million, Pruk Panich with $2.4 million, and Halle Bailey with $1.7 million.

ENHYPEN is leading the charge

ENHYPEN‘s influence isn’t a one-off event. As reported by EnVi, the K-pop million-selling band had previously made a significant impact during the Milan Fashion Week menswear FW23 season, accumulating an astounding $11.2 million in MIV®—a figure unprecedented at any Prada show.

Media Impact Value™, a proprietary algorithm by Launchmetrics, measures the impact of media placements across various channels, allowing brands to gauge the ROI of their marketing activities. Using MIV® as a benchmark, brands can quantify the buzz generated by celebrities and influencers in monetary terms, compare success strategies across markets, and even benchmark their performance against competitors.

The data from Launchmetrics underscores a broader trend: the rising influence of K-pop, Thai, and Filipino stars in the fashion industry. This year alone, numerous fashion brands have recognized the potential of APAC celebrities, tapping into their vast communities and fandoms. With their unique style and significant social media pull, these stars are poised to redefine the fashion landscape. Events like Fashion Week are the perfect platform to showcase their growing influence and industry reputation.

In conclusion, as the fashion world evolves, the intersection of K-pop and high fashion is becoming increasingly prominent. The wonderful thing is that ENHYPEN is leading the charge. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ENHYPEN outpaced top international stars. Bravo! Source: Vogue Singapore.

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BTS’ Jungkook Declares ‘I’m Not That Innocent’ During Live Broadcast

Jungkook, the golden maknae of BTS, was the talk of the town among ARMYs due to his revelations. On October 1, he connected with fans via a Stationhead listening party, discussing many topics—his perceived innocence among them. He’s aware that some still view him as the wide-eyed boy who joined BTS as a teenager, even though he’s now in his mid-twenties. As much as he loves his fans, he felt the need to address this perception.

And address it he did. Minutes into his broadcast, Jungkook stated, “Guys, I’m not that innocent. I know everything, and I’m 26 years old now. Wouldn’t it be strange if I were plain? Am I plain? I’m not that innocent. I know things that people know. I am now 26 years old because my birthday has passed. Is it strange if someone is not innocent at that age? I like drinking. I like to work hard and then play and rest when I’m not working.”

Jungkook probably wanted to remind his fans that he’s a grown man because he received some backlash for the explicit lyrics of his songs. Having declared that he’s “not that innocent,” he may release even more mature material in the future.

Jungkook Stationhead 3D Listening Party English Subtitles Day 1

Jungkook on his hyungs

He then addressed fans’ questions about his solo material—the hits “Seven” and “3D,” the latter of which dropped a few days ago. But although he was glad to talk about his own work, his genuine affection for his fellow BTS members was evident. When asked about his hyungs, he positively lit up, making it clear that despite his success as a soloist, the bond with his bandmates remains unbreakable.

“Hobi-hyung, Jin-hyung, and Yoongi-hyung… yes, they’re all healthy. Time is going by so fast! But by now, I want to get with the members and live and work hard with them. I want to do something as a whole group! How fun would it be! It’d be so fun, right? The seven of us standing onstage. Thinking about that, I get goosebumps. I feel like it’d be so fun!” he enthused.

Jungkook also touched on BTS‘ future, admitting he often gives away spoilers. He also shared his apprehensions about variety shows, saying, “Come out on a variety show? I like doing performances. But interviews, I’m scared—no, I feel awkward. That’s how I feel about variety shows, too. Variety shows should be fun, but I feel like I won’t be good at it.”

Jungkook 3D Stationhead Listening Party English Subtitles Day 2

Heartfelt messages

In a touching moment, a fan left a comment, saying they wanted to stop supporting Jungkook and switch to another idol. He responded with grace, saying, “It’s up to you. You’re free to do it. I’m just here being thankful when someone supports me. You see, there are so many people who dislike me. Well, there are lots of people who like me too. So many people dislike me, but I don’t care much anymore. I just try to do my best for those who support me. When I see hate comments, I’m thankful. The people who write them are still spending their time on me. They’re a kind of fan, too.”

He concluded with a heartfelt message. “I’ll continue to do my best for those who support me. I might make mistakes or disappoint you because of my shortcomings, but my mindset will not change. I’m confident that, of all things, that won’t change. Even if my body doesn’t allow it, like if my knees wear out or my voice is gone, I’ll find a way within those limits. But I’ll go as far as I can because I get so much strength from you. And that’s what I want to do. Anyway, thank you always.”

It wasn’t goodbye for too long because he returned to Stationhead for another listening party the day after. He talked about his “3D” collaborator Jack Harlow and the photos they took together where Jungkook was wearing Jack’s necklace. He also mentioned wanting to do more broadcasts in the coming days. It seems such broadcasts are becoming his favorite way to stay in touch with fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook posted this selca during his first Stationhead broadcast. Source: Weverse.

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BTS’ Agency Likely to Face Tougher Disclosure Rules

HYBE, the K-pop agency responsible for global sensations like BTS and NewJeans, is inching closer to a regulatory crossroads. The company and its 16 affiliates had a combined asset value of 5.37 trillion KRW at the end of June. If this figure remains above the 5 trillion KRW ($3.7 billion) mark by the end of the year, HYBE will find itself under the purview of South Korea’s Monopoly Regulation and Fair Trade Act (MRFTA).

The MRFTA, enacted in 1980 and overseen by the Korea Fair Trade Commission (KFTC), was designed to foster a competitive market landscape. It does so by curbing monopolistic behaviors and ensuring that businesses operate transparently. One of its pivotal provisions requires large conglomerates, colloquially known as chaebols in South Korea, to provide detailed financial and operational disclosures if their assets breach certain thresholds, such as the 5 trillion KRW benchmark. This transparency is crucial. It offers both the KFTC and the general public a clear view of the operations of these business giants.

Each year, the Fair Trade Commission releases a watchlist of companies subject to these mandatory disclosures. The criteria are based on their financial statements and share ratios at the year’s end. If HYBE’s assets surpass the 5 trillion KRW threshold by the end of 2021, it will be subjected to regulations typically reserved for much larger corporations. This would be a first for a K-pop agency. Among the potential implications are mandatory disclosures on internal trading and regulations against the unfair channeling of business profits.

@justmeivangee

Here are some Q3 K-Pop company earnings!!! #hybelabels #adorhybe #smentertainment #jypentertainment #jyp #ygentertainment #ygkpop #hybebts #adornewjeans #ygblackpink #jypitzy #smentertainmentfamily

♬ Super Shy – NewJeans

HYBE is one of many in this situation

Significant financial growth has marked HYBE’s journey to this potential regulatory juncture. From the end of the previous year to June, the company’s assets swelled by 11.5%, reaching 3.98 trillion KRW. When considering the assets of its subsidiaries, such as BigHit Music, Pledis Entertainment, and Weverse Company, the combined total comfortably exceeds the 5 trillion KRW mark.

HYBE is one of many companies navigating these regulatory waters. Hyundai Marine & Fire Insurance, an insurance subsidiary of the Hyundai conglomerate, is also approaching the disclosure threshold. On the flip side, companies like Iljin witnessed a decline in their assets. Iljin’s assets dropped by over 2 trillion KRW after selling several of its affiliates, including the notable sale of Iljin Materials to petrochemical titan Lotte Chemical.

The evolving financial landscapes of these companies underscore the dynamic nature of South Korea’s business environment, where rapid growth can bring both opportunities and regulatory challenges. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The exterior of HYBE’s building in Yeongsan, Seoul. Source: Yonhap News Agency. 

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Sweet! A Couple Gets Engaged During TWICE’s ‘Ready to Be’ Concert in the Philippines

TWICE poses after their 'Ready to Be' concert at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Credit: Twitter/TWICE

Yes or yes! The Ready to Be concert of K-pop girl group TWICE at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan took a sweet and unexpected turn as the act witnessed their fans getting engaged. 

During the Saturday, September 30 show, a man proposed to his girlfriend. Videos of the incident quickly made waves on social media. 

Based on the videos, it was member Jongyeon who first noticed the ongoing proposal happening from the crowd. She then told the rest of the TWICE about it. 

To which the members asked the couple: “Are you getting married right now? Congratulations!” 

The camera then panned to the said couple, who was seen hugging and showing off the engagement ring. 

But the heartwarming moment didn’t stop there as TWICE asked the couple to kiss. And as the newly-engaged pair did just that, the crowd erupted in cheers. 

While several fans were endeared at the members’ reaction, other attendees spotted a hilarious moment from it. 

According to a video taken by an attendee during the proposal, Dahyun was focusing on interacting with the fans while the rest of the members were getting emotional from the moment. 

@xkpopstans

dahyun’s priority: cameras #twice #dahyun #kpop #fyp

♬ Sneaky Snitch – Kevin MacLeod

Moreover, the couple — Judah Ism and Sigrid Grace Flores — also took to social media to share their happiness from getting engaged.

“This is so unreal! I got proposed to by the love of my life in front of my queens,” the woman wrote.  She also thanked her fiancée for “going above and beyond  to make [his] love known.” 

‘Ready to Be’ in Bulacan

The proposal was just one of the highlights during the group’s two-night sold-out show at the Philippine Arena. Although member Chaeyoung wasn’t able to attend the show, Filipino ONCEs went all out for their support for the group. Especially that the Ready to Be shows served as TWICE’s return to the Philippines in four years, following their 2019 concert Twicelights. 

On social media, the group also expressed their happiness at the enthusiastic crowd. 

Describing it as “out of this world,” TWICE said that the Filipino attendees left them “speechless” with their “beautiful voices and amazing energy.” 

After the second day of the Ready to Be concert, the group said they won’t forget the “passionate energy and heat of the performance” of the Filipino crowd. 

Composed of Nayeon, Jeongyeon, Momo, Sana, Jihyo, Mina, Dahyun, Chaeyoung, and Tzuyu, TWICE made their debut in 2015 under JYP Entertainment. The group is known for hits “The Feels,” “Fancy,” “Feel Special,” and “More & More.” 

In July 2022, all nine members of TWICE renewed their contracts with JYP Entertainment.

Currently, TWICE is embarking on their READY TO BE concert tour. For this specific tour, they made history as the first K-pop girl group to sell out at a stadium in North America.

TWICE poses after their ‘Ready to Be’ concert at the Philippine Arena in Bulacan. Credit: Twitter/TWICE

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Jungmin Departs From NCT New Team

Jungmin in a scene still from 'NCT Universe: The Lastart' episode. Credit: Twitter/NCT Universe: The Lastart

Just a month after the finale of reality show NCT Universe: LASTART, SM Entertainment has announced the departure of member Jungmin from NCT New Team. 

On Monday, October 2, the agency announced that Jungmin will no longer debut with the group due to health reasons. 

According to the label, the NCT New Team was preparing for their pre-debut tour that is set to start on October 8. However, Jungmin wasn’t able to participate in practice given his health condition. 

While the chosen pre-debut member was focusing on his treatment, SM Entertainment shared that they continue THEIR discussion with the aspiring idol’s family and medical staff. 

“After deep consideration with Jungmin’s health as the top priority, Jungmin will not join NCT New Team,” they said. Additionally, the agency explained that he’ll return to being a trainee as he completely focus on recovery.

Moreover, they apologized to fans who felt shocked with the sudden news. But the agency also asked for continued support for Jungmin as he work on getting better. 

With this, NCT New Team will continue with six members moving forward. 

What we know about NCT New Team so far

In NCT Universe: LASTART, a total of 11 trainees underwent four rounds of missions showcasing their potential as K-pop idols. Super Junior’s Eunhyuk and soloist Boa served as art directors and mentors in the show.

Initially, SM Entertainment announced that NCT New Team will only have six members. But during the program’s last episode, it was revealed that the unit would have seven members instead. 

Prior to the show, SMRookies  members Sion and Yushi were already confirmed to be the part of the unit. The two have been fixed participants in all of the missions for the series. 

Those who were included in the lineup were Riku, Sakuya, Daeyoung, Jungmin, and Ryo. 

As of writing, SM Entertainment has yet to reveal the debut details of NCT New Team. 

But it can be recalled that the new unit participated in the NCT NATION concerts in Japan alongside other NCT units. 

Moreover, SM Entertainment has earlier confirmed that the NCT New Team will be the last chapter to NCT’s limitless expansion concept. Previously, it was stated that the group would be called NCT Tokyo. But the agency has yet to unveil the group’s final name. 

With Jungmin’s departure from NCT New Team, NCT will now have a total of 26 members in its six units instead. The six units are as follows: NCT 127, NCT Dream, Wayv, NCT U, NCT DoJaeJung, and the LASTART group. 

Featured image: Jungmin in a scene still from ‘NCT Universe: The Lastart’ episode. Credit: Twitter/NCT Universe: The Lastart

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Is G-Dragon Transferring to Another Agency?

G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG's 2015 'MADE' in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

In June, YG Entertainment confirmed that the exclusive contract of G-DRAGON with their agency has ended. Since then, fans have been keenly anticipating his next moves.

On Saturday, September 30, G-DRAGON posted a series of photos on his personal Instagram account. One photo specifically prompted fans to speculate on his career developments. 

Said photo showed an electronic display put up by Warner Music Records that read: “Welcome G-Dragon.” This led fans to speculate that the rapper has likely signed with the label. 

Prior to the photos’ release, foreign media reported that the singer visited the  Warner Music Records office in Los Angeles, California. For those who don’t know, Warner Music is one of the top three music labels in the global music industry alongside Universal Music and Sony Music.

With GD’s speculated leap in his career, fans, especially BIGBANG’s fandom VIPs, are thrilled for his return. Earlier this year, the “Crooked” singer announced that he has plans to return with a solo album.

Fans’ thoughts about the next move of G-Dragon

Although there are no official confirmations yet, fans have already brought their sentiments to social media.

Upon seeing the update, VIPs could not hide their excitement for the singer. “If it’s true that G-Dragon signed with Warner, Congratulations! Hopefully we will get music soon,” one wrote.

https://twitter.com/tttoptier131kon/status/1707001128532250988

Other fans, meanwhile, remain skeptical and believe that his visit at Warner Music is only for US promotions.

G-DRAGON’s journey with BIGBANG and YG

Known as one of the leading K-Pop artists, G-DRAGON has spent 23 years with YG Entertainment. From BIGBANG’s debut in 2006, the singer has been with the agency since he was 19 years old.

Composed of members G-DRAGON, T.O.P., Taeyang, Daesung and former member Seungri, BIGBANG has been established as one of the leading K-pop groups from the second generation. The act released numerous hits including “BANG BANG BANG”, “Still Life”, “LOSER”, and a lot more throughout their career. 

Undoubtedly, the group’s leader GD has led BIGBANG to be one of the most influential K-Pop groups in history.

Sadly, BIGBANG went on an indefinite hiatus in 2018, releasing the song “Flower Road.” Said song served as a farewell song while the members completed their mandatory military service.

In 2019, the youngest member Seungri departed from the group after being embroiled in the infamous Burning Sun scandal. 

In 2022, T.O.P. also decided to not renew his contract with the agency, and announced that he would no longer participate in the group. Meanwhile, Taeyang transferred to THEBLACKLABEL, which is a subsidiary of YG Entertainment.

Regardless of whether there’s official confirmation yet or not, fans are already looking forward to G-DRAGON’s comeback as a solo artist.

Featured image: G-Dragon in a concept photo for BIGBANG’s 2015 ‘MADE’ in Seoul DVD. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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