Author: Kpop News Writer

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Haobin Fans Accuse WAKEONE Entertainment of Homophobia

Haobin

Fans of the Haobin duo, Zhang Hao and Sung Hanbin, have recently expressed their concerns and accusations of homophobia directed towards WAKEONE Entertainment. The allegations stem from the company’s perceived treatment of the two ZEROBASEONE members.

zb1 haobin moments in boys planet || zhang hao & sung hanbin’s story

Haobin on ‘Boys Planet’ and beyond

Viewers of the popular show Boys Planet are well-acquainted with the deep bond between Zhang Hao and Hanbin. Their camaraderie was evident during the show’s finale, where their interactions caught the attention of many as they secured the first and second positions. Announcer Minhyun heightened the suspense by revealing that one of the two would clinch the top spot. While Hanbin consistently maintained a high rank throughout the season, Zhang Hao‘s journey from the top nine to the pinnacle was remarkable.

The climax saw Zhang Hao crowned ZEROBASEONE‘s center, with Hanbin closely following in the second position. Fans were ecstatic to see both their favorites make it to the group. However, a particular moment before the official announcement became the talk of the town. As Minhyun confirmed their inclusion in the group, an emotional Hanbin was comforted by Zhang Hao. Fans at the live show captured this heartwarming moment from various angles, with one angle seemingly showing Zhang Hao planting a gentle kiss on Hanbin‘s neck during their embrace.

Their close bond became evident in various appearances, such as their stint on Mnet’s ASMR YouTube series. Here, the duo shared endearing stories about each other, revealing instances when they found the other most adorable. Hanbin fondly spoke about Zhang Hao‘s eating habits, emphasizing how his tendency to smile while eating was a sight to behold. Zhang Hao reciprocated the sentiment, mentioning how he often captured Hanbin‘s cute moments, especially when he ate eggs.

https://twitter.com/iamzerocola/status/1706924217957335149

Is WAKEONE homophobic?

However, the bubble burst when fans began to suspect WAKEONE of taking discriminatory actions against the duo’s closeness. A recent poll by Forbes Korea on the Idol Champion app asked fans to vote for the idol pair with the most chemistry. The reward for the winning duo was a one-page ad and a news PR story in the magazine’s October edition. With over 60% of the votes, Zhang Hao and Hanbin emerged victoriously. Yet, fans were taken aback when the edition preview showcased a group photo of ZEROBASEONE instead of the winning duo. Idol Champ later apologized, attributing the oversight to the lack of “official images” of the pair. However, fans were unconvinced and believed that WAKEONE could have provided the required images.

This incident, coupled with rumors that WAKEONE has been trying to distance Zhang Hao and Hanbin due to their closeness, has fueled suspicions of the company’s homophobic intentions. While it’s essential not to speculate about their personal lives, such behavior, if proven true, can be considered homophobia.

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, agencies must foster an environment of acceptance and understanding. Only time will tell how this controversy unfolds and its implications for the industry, especially since ZEROBASEONE is due for a comeback. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans suspect ZEROBASEONE’s agency of keeping Haobin apart. Source: X/@haobinzzang.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

DearU’s Overseas Launch to Boost 2023 Revenue to 78.5 Billion KRW

DearU, a Kakao fan platform, is in the news due to its projected revenue surge in 2023. The platform, focusing on 1:1 private messaging between artists and fans, aims to achieve 78.5 billion KRW in sales. This marks a 59.5% increase from last year. It also targets an operating profit of 28.6 billion KRW, a 75.4% growth.

Growth drivers

Lee Hwan-wook from Yuanta Securities highlighted the growth drivers. He mentioned the recent addition of monster rookie ZEROBASEONE and the virtual idol group PLAVE. With participants from Miss Trot‘s second season, DearU expects a surge in subscribers. By year-end, projections show around 2.55 million subscribers. The fourth quarter alone might add about 140,000.

DearU plans to collaborate with M-Up Holdings in Japan to launch Bubble. This move could boost DearU’s growth next year. “M-Up Holdings has around 300 Japanese artist IPs and 2 million paying users. With the launch, we see 10% of JV sales and 44% of equity method profits in next year’s results,” said Lee Hwan-wook.

DearU mainly earns from its monthly subscription service, costing 4,500 KRW per artist. The platform maintains an 80-90% retention rate, showing high user satisfaction. Lee Hwan-wook discussed the success factors. He talked about new fandoms expanding globally, increasing subscriptions. New IPs also add to the growth. “By Q3, the top four entertainment companies might exceed last year’s album sales, reaching 8.2 million units. We see a 10-15% subscription increase next year,” he added.

The future of DearU

The platform’s appeal grows with SM Entertainment’s new boy group RIIZE, NCT Tokyo‘s upcoming launch in Q4, and new girl groups next year. New global groups from JYP Entertainment and other IPs from entertainment companies are coming soon.

Sales might rise by 4.3 billion KRW, with a similar equity method profit. In 2024, sales could reach 110.7 billion KRW, a 41.1% year-on-year growth. The operating profit might be 45.9 billion KRW, a 60.6% increase, with a 41.5% profit margin.

Lee Hwan-wook is optimistic about DearU’s stocks. He noted the current stock price, with a 12-month price-to-earnings ratio of 25 times, is historically low. With an expected 37% growth rate in average earnings per share over two years, he sees a low stock price risk. DearU’s stock price was 41,600 KRW on the 25th, with a 55,000 KRW target price set by him. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: DearU is poised for success in 2023. Source: X/@dearu_bubble.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ RM Donates 100 Million KRW to Korean Forensic Service

BTS‘ leader, RM, has generously donated 100 million won to the Korean Forensic Medicine Society, intending to advance forensic medicine nationwide. The current scenario in South Korea reveals a concerning shortage of forensic scientists, with only about 60 active professionals in the field. Moreover, only two to three medical doctors a year take up forensic medicine as a specialty.

RM decided to donate after working with forensic scientist Professor Lee Ho on The Dictionary of Useless Knowledge. It was a tvN show he hosted alongside Jang Hang-jun, featuring panelists Kim Young-ha, Kim Sang-wook, and Dr. Shim Chae-kyung. It began airing on December 2, 2022 and ended on January 27, 2023. The January 6 episode highlighted the challenges forensic scientists in South Korea face. On that day, RM noted that in 2023, no one applied to enter the field.

RM is ‘a cool and deep person’

Dr. Shim Chae-kyung, a planetary scientist and astronomer at the Korea Astronomy and Space Science Institute, expressed her admiration for RM’s charitable act. Taking to Instagram on the 27th, she labeled the news of RM‘s donation as “wonderful news.”

Looking back on the day Professor Lee Ho appeared on the show, Dr. Shim shared, “During breaks in the filming of ‘Useless Knowledge,’ Namjoon continued his conversation with Professor Lee Ho. And he made a promise right there. You could tell from his attitude, expression, and eyes that it wasn’t just empty words. He remembered the promise he made and followed through to the end.”

She added, “I thought astronomers were few, but the number of forensic scientists is even fewer. I send cheers and encouragement to those who walk the path of forensic medicine and applause and respect to Namjoon, who does what he can with a kind heart. He feels like a much younger brother. But at the same time, he’s like a life senior with a high level of maturity, a cool and deep person.”

About the Korean Forensic Medicine Society

The Korean Forensic Medicine Society was established in 1976. It has been pivotal in promoting human rights, judicial justice, and social safety through its forensic research, evaluations, and training. Despite the society’s efforts, the number of active forensic scientists remains alarmingly low. 

RM said, “Becoming a forensic scientist is very challenging. I genuinely respect those who walk the path of a forensic scientist. I hope to contribute, even if just a little, to their training and support and the Forensic Medicine Society’s growth.”

The funds donated by RM will be used for the Korean Forensic Medicine Society’s talent cultivation projects, academic research, and enhancements in forensic medicine systems. In recognition of RM‘s generous contribution, the Korean Forensic Medicine Society plans to present him with a certificate of appreciation and grant him honorary membership. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: RM’s concern over the state of forensics in South Korea led him to donate. Source: X/@joooniehq.

Categories
LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Watch: BTS’ V, Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik in ‘Jinny’s Kitchen’ Spin-off Teaser

Cast members in the teaser of spin-off 'Visiting God of Communication: Jinny's Kitchen.' Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

Business is open again! The cast of variety show Jinny’s Kitchen reunites in its spin-off series Visiting God of Communication: Jinny’s Kitchen. 

On Wednesday, September 27, Channel Fullmoon released the teaser for its highly-anticipated spin-off. 

In the one-minute teaser, BTS’s V, Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, Jung Yu Mi and Lee Seo Jin were seen strengthening their teamwork. The cast members participated  in a series of recreation activities and games.

For those unfamiliar, the six cast members already took part in Jinny’s Kitchen. It is a popular reality show created by producer Na Yeong Seok or Na PD.

In the said series, Lee Seo Jin acted as the CEO of the restaurant. Meanwhile, actress Jung Yu Mi was appointed as the Director while actor Park Seo Joon was the General Manager. Lastly, actor Choi Woo Shik and Kim Taehyung of BTS complete the cast as interns. 

What we know about Visiting God of Communication

First, the teaser kicked off with the production crew receiving an anonymous phone call. Then,  an undisclosed employee reported: “It seems like the boss is not interested in his employees anymore.” Notably, Na PD mentioned that the team did not seem to communicate well.

With the situation arising, CEO Seo Jin hilariously interrogates the team to know who filed the report. Intern Woo Shik adds to the tension by asking, “Who is it?”

The teaser only gets funnier as the cast tries to resolve the problem by having a team-building activity. There, Seo Jin, Yu Mi, Seo Joon, Woo Shik and V got chaotic as they played Jegi Chagi, group skipping, and some indoor games.

With Na PD’s admirable background in producing shows full of wit and entertainment, fans are excited to see what will happen in the Jinny’s Kitchen spin-off. Some of his famous works include 2 Days & 1 Night, New Journey to The West and the Youtube program Game Caterers.

More about Jinny’s Kitchen

To those unaware, Jinny’s Kitchen is a spin-off itself of Na PD’s other reality show Youn’s Kitchen which had two seasons. In the original series, only Seo Jin, Yu Mi, and Seo Joon were part of the cast.

Then for Jinny’s Kitchen, Woo Shik and V joined the culinary crew as interns. There, the cast opened a food restaurant in the city of Bacalar in Mexico, to offer Korean cuisine to the customers.

With the cast’s charming chemistry in the show, fans are much more excited for the upcoming spin-off.

Visiting God of Communication: Jinny’s Kitchen is set to premiere on October 12. As of writing, there are no specific details released yet on whether it will be a whole season or just a single episode.

Featured image: Cast members in the teaser of spin-off ‘Visiting God of Communication: Jinny’s Kitchen.’ Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Younite to Make Comeback With ‘Bit Part. 2’

YOUNITE in the comeback photos of their EP 'BIT Part. 1' Credit: Facebook/YOUNITE

K-pop boy group YOUNITE is making their comeback with their fifth mini-album BIT Part. 2

According to agency BRAND NEW MUSIC, BIT Part. 2 will be released on October 17. It will serve as a follow-up to the group’s fourth EP BIT Part. 1, which was released in May. 

In the teaser released on Tuesday, September 26,, a pager which carried the phrase “Love It” is seen in a jeans pocket. Moreover, the poster featured phrases “I Got You” and “Whenever you are ready, just tell me.”

Eagle-eyed fans noticed that pager in the latest teaser was similar from the group’s previous release. According to fans, the pager first appeared in the music video for “Water Fall.” “Water Fall” was the title track for BIT Part. 1. 

As of writing, details about the title track and number of songs have yet to be announced. 

However, based on their comeback schedule, YOUNITE will be releasing story trailers, track list, track samplers, unit photos, and music video teasers in the coming days. Then on October 17, an hour before the album and music video release, the group will hold a countdown live. 

More about YOUNITE 

In April 2022, YOUNITE made their debut with the first EP Youni-BIRTH. A combination of the words “you” and “unite,” the band’s name aims to signify the group’s wish to be connected with their fans at all times. 

It is composed of members Eunho, Steve, Hyunseung, Eunsang, Hyungseok, Woonno, DEY, Kyungmun, and Sion. Some of their songs are “Aviator,” “Bad Cupid,” and “Come Around.”

Since the confirmation of YOUNITE’s latest comeback, fans of the group are looking forward to their latest offering. 

The nine-piece act is known for refreshing concepts and innovative takes. Which makes their releases always something to watch out for. 

Featured image: YOUNITE in the comeback photos of their EP ‘BIT Part. 1’ Credit: Facebook/YOUNITE

Categories
K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Song Hye Kyo Reveals ‘The Glory’ Brought Back Her Love for Acting

Song Hye Kyo shares behind-the-scenes from 'The Glory' filming. Credit: Instagram/Song Hye Kyo

Renowned South Korean actress Song Hye Kyo opened up about experiencing career burnout. Thankfully, the hit revenge series The Glory has helped bring back her love for craft.

In an interview with the news outlet Sports Chosun, Hye Kyo mentioned that prior to her appearance in the drama, she reached a point where she got tired of doing the same roles that she did not enjoy the craft anymore.

 

“Acting was always fun, challenging, and difficult… But at some point, I felt a bit tired because I wasn’t doing various productions,” the actress shared.

Additionally, Hye Kyo also shared her belief that people’s perception towards her acting has changed since her role in The Glory.

“I was always shown the same way. And I thought people would think I’m boring because even I felt like I was boring,” she disclosed. However, this changed after taking part in the thriller drama.

In the critically-acclaimed series, Hye Kyo played the role of Moon Dong-Eun, a school violence victim who meticulously plotted her vengeance towards her perpetrators.

Despite the challenging role, Hye Kyo bagged the Grand Prize at the 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards for her outstanding performance.

Actress Song Hye Kyo throughout the years

In 1996, the then-14-year-old Song Hye Kyo entered the world of entertainment as she won a modeling contest. In the same year, Hye Kyo made her acting debut with a small role in the drama First Love.

Four years later, the actress rose to fame when she starred as the lead actress in the popular drama series Autumn in My Heart.

Since then, her career continued to prosper thanks to her appearance in numerous television dramas and films. Some of her notable works include My Girl and I in 2005, Hwang Jin Yi in 2007, and The Grandmaster in 2013. There, she worked with esteemed Hong Kong director Wong Kar Wai.

Marking her 20th year in the industry in 2016, the actress made a triumphant TV comeback with the hit drama Descendants of the Sun. Said drama bagged the Grand Prize in the prestigious Baek Sang TV Awards ceremony, while Hye Kyo took home the Most Popular Actress award.

Ultimately, the success of The Glory also opened up more opportunities for the veteran actress. “The roles I received afterwards have become more diverse than before,” she said.

With the abundant offers coming her way, the actress expressed her desire to try on genres she hasn’t done yet in the past. “I want to try horror, thriller, and I also want to play a villain role,” she said, “Comedy is good. I want to appear in a rom-com too.” Hye Kyo added.

Featured image: Song Hye Kyo shares behind-the-scenes from ‘The Glory’ filming. Credit: Instagram/Song Hye Kyo

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Super Junior Announces Fan Meeting for 18th Anniversary

Super Junior during their 'Super Show 9' concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

Mark your calendars, ELFs! K-pop boy group Super Junior will be marking their 18th debut anniversary with a fan meeting titled 1t’s 8lue. 

On Tuesday, September 26, the “Sorry, Sorry” hitmakers announced that the event will be held twice at the Grand Peace Palace at Kyung Hee Universe, Seoul on November 4. The first show is set for 2 pm, while the second show is set for 7 pm.

Members Leeteuk, Heechul, Yesung, Shindong, Eunhyuk, Donghae, Siwon, Ryeowook, and Kyuhyun are confirmed to participate in the fan meeting. 

According to a Naver article, the 1t’s 8lue show will not only perform their hit songs, but also prepare various activities that would entertain their fans. Additionally, attendees can expect talking segments wherein the members will look back on their 18-year career. 

Moreover, there will also be several games that will highlight the group’s friendship and chemistry. Considering that Super Junior are known to be a variety of idols, fans are already looking forward to a fun and sentimental time. 

Interestingly, the 1t’s 8lue would serve as the group’s first fan meeting in more than a year. In April 2022, they held the Return of the King fan meeting in Japan. Given that it’s been a while since fans have seen them, the show will also be livestreamed online for fans who can’t attend the event in person. 

Super Junior as Hallyu Kings

Initially a 12-member group, Super Junior debuted under SM Entertainment in November 2005. In 2006, member Kyuhyun was added as the group was meant to have rotating members. 

Throughout its career, the group faced a series of controversies and lineup changes. But they also set several records, and earned the title of “Hallyu Kings.” Currently, only nine members actively promote with the group. 

In July 2023, members Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun didn’t renew their contracts with SM Entertainment. However, the three promised to still be active in Super Junior activities.

Now, Kyuhyun is under the Antenna agency while Donghae and Eunhyuk have established ODE Entertainment.

Featured image: Super Junior during their ‘Super Show 9’ concert in Ho Chi Minh. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Newjeans Teases League of Legends Worlds 2023 Anthem

NewJeans during their promotional activities for 'Get Up.' Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Get ready to cheer loudly, Bunnies! K-pop girl group NewJeans will be taking over the 2023 League of Legends World Championship with their music. 

On Thursday, September 27, League of Legends announced that South Korean girl group NewJeans will be featured in the Worlds 2023 Anthem titled “Gods.”

Composed of Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein, the group took on the challenge to try on a new genre with this project. “It was fun to try a new genre and sound. Through this collaboration, we are happy to present a song that incorporates both NewJeans and League of Legends’ unique colors,” the band said in a press release.

Moreover, the “Hype Boy” hitmakers hoped it would bring a new sense of empowerment to the players.

NewJeans in League of Legends competition

For those who don’t know, the League of Legends World Championship is a major annual professional tournament hosted by Riot Games. Teams from all over the world compete rigorously in a series of League of Legends battles. 

In its 2023 edition, the prestigious competition will take place in South Korea. During the  previous years, Riot Games worked with big names in the music industry including Imagine Dragons and Lil Nas. 

Carrie Dun, the Global head of creative at Riot Games shared his thoughts in the collaboration. “Between Worlds taking place in Korea and NewJeans’ meteoric rise, this partnership felt fated as a true cultural celebration,” he said. 

Additionally, he believes that “Gods” as the official anthem will set the stage for what’s bound to be an incredible World.

Bunnies’ excitement for NewJeans

With this new achievement, the group’s fandom Bunnies could not hide their excitement for the K-pop superstars.

“Thank you for this blessing! Can’t wait to hear it,” one fan excitedly wrote.

The Golden Guardians account also showed their anticipation with the news. “WE ARE SEATED,” they claimed. To which the League of Legends’ account replied with: “As you should!”

https://twitter.com/GoldenGuardians/status/1706811899881668876

The official track and an animated video will be launched on October 4.

Featured image: NewJeans during their promotional activities for ‘Get Up.’ Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

GOT7’s Bambam Jokingly Calls Out a Fan for Watching His Dancers Instead of Him

GOT7's BamBam during his 'AREA52' concert in Manila. Credit: Instagram/BamBam

The bond between a K-pop idol and a fan is special. And BamBam of K-pop group GOT7 has recently proven once again why their fans, the AHGASEs, deeply endeared him. 

During his Area52 concert in Manila on Saturday, September 21, the Thai singer delivered an awesome show for his Filipino fans. As it was his first solo concert in the country, BamBam prepared several stages, including doing a cover of a hit Filipino song titled “Raining in Manila” by the OPM band Lola Amour. 

Aside from that, he also had Sandara Park, also known as 2NE1’s Dara, as his special guest. The two even took on the “GENTO” dance challenge by P-pop group SB19. 

Amidst these performances though, BamBam noticed one concert attendee whose attention wasn’t on him. After the actual performance, he jokingly singled out the fan and shared how he noticed that the fan was looking at his backup dancer instead. 

According to BamBam, he was trying to make eye contact with the fan during his performance, but the said fan was busy looking at one of his dancers. Moreover, he even asked that specific AHGASE to point out which dancer was particularly interested in. 

To which BamBam replied that he wants AHGASEs to only look at him, and nobody else. 

Territorial BamBam to his AHGASEs

The particular interaction quickly went viral on social media, with many AHGASEs finding it cute and hilarious. Others were pointing out that GOT7 members are territorial with their fans, and are usually sulky when they see fans “swerving lanes.” 

Meanwhile, some are praising BamBam’s bond with his fans as he’s already known to be active in interacting with them in any chance he could get. 

Interestingly, the said fan who got caught by BamBam also took to Twitter to air her side. Based on the videos she uploaded, the idol even asked her what’s her name and told her that he’ll remember her. 

She also explained that it was the girl dancers she was looking at as they were too pretty. 

On top of that, more Filipino AHGASEs pointed out that this wasn’t the first time that BamBam jokingly called out fans for noticing his dancers. 

During his previous visit last July 2022, BamBam also had a funny reaction when he noticed several fans were fawning over one of his dancers. Sharing a photo of the said dancer, he quipped that he’ll give him a break before he steals his fans. 

Featured image: GOT7’s BamBam during his ‘AREA52’ concert in Manila. Credit: Instagram/BamBam

 

Categories
K-DRAMA K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Girl’s Day Yura Talks About Group’s Close Bond, Hints Possible Reunion

GIRL'S DAY Yura shares new photo with fans. Credit: Instagram/Yura

Yura of the K-pop group Girl’s Day has just given DAI5Ys some updates about the members!

On Tuesday, September 26, Yura sat down for an interview following the release of her new film Marrying the Mafia: Returns. There, the singer-actress tackled various topics including Girl’s Day’s close bond.

Yura revealed that the members still regularly meet despite their hectic schedule. 

“I met the Girl’s Day members once at the end of August… Even if we see each other occasionally, there is a very comfortable feeling as if we have met often,” she shared.

Additionally, the singer-actress mentioned that the members are very supportive of each other’s acting projects. Whenever we work, we talk a lot among the members. Soon, Minah’s movie will be released, and Hyeri’s movie will be released when it’s over. I think when we meet, we talk a lot about acting,” she said. 

Yura’s dreams for Girl’s Day in the future

Consisting of Yura, Hyeri, Minah and Sojin, Girl’s Day debuted in 2010,  After the group’s contract with Dream T Entertainment expired in 2019, the members decided to not renew with the agency, putting the group on hiatus. In 2023, they celebrated their 13th anniversary. 

In the same interview, Yura expressed her dreams for a new Girl’s Day album while watching the comeback reunions of other second-generation groups. “Even in my dreams, I dream of standing on the Girl’s Day stage. When I see my fellow singers coming together again, I want to do the same,” she said. 

However, the singer-actress also acknowledged the difficulties they would have to face as they are in different companies now. “Girl’s Day members want to do it,” she emphasized.

Yura’s acting venture

While the Girl’s Day remain inactive with their group activities, Yura has focused on her acting career.

Her most recent film Marrying the Mafia: Returns, is expected to show a new side of Yura. In the movie,  she plays the role of Jinkyung, the youngest daughter of the Jang family. The comedy film will revolve around Jinkyung and writer Daeseo’s grand plans for marriage to retain the Jang family’s glory.

Prior to that, Yura has also starred in multiple dramas including Destined With You, Forecasting Love and Weather, and Radio Romance among others.

Featured image: GIRL’S DAY Yura shares new photo with fans. Credit: Instagram/Yura

Exit mobile version