Author: Kpop News Writer

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Look: Go Yoon Jung, Shin Si Ah to Star in ‘Hospital Playlist’ Spin-off

Go Yoon Jung updates fans with new photos from recent shoot. Credit: Instagram/Go Yoon Jung

K-Drama lovers, you’re in for a treat! Hit drama Hospital Playlist is getting a spin-off series and actresses Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah are the first actors confirmed to be part of it. 

On Thursday, September 21, TVN announced that both Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah will play the role of a first-year Obstetrics and Gynecology resident in Yulje Medical Center. 

Titled A Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday, the spin-off will depict the relatable lives and exciting friendships of doctors and residents at a university hospital. 

For those unfamiliar, the Hospital Playlist series was well-loved by local and international fans that it spawned a second season. Starring Jo Jung Suk, Yoo Yeon Seok, Jung Kyung Ho, Kim Dae Myung and Jeon Mi Do, it followed the day-to-day lives of a group of doctors. 

Moreover, Hospital Playlist  won the Best Drama at the 2020 Brand of the Year Awards. Additionally, its second season also set the highest premiere ratings in TVN’s history with its pilot episode scoring a solid 10% viewership.

With the series’ success’, fans until now are still clamoring for a third season. But with the confirmation of a spin-off series, viewers are thrilled to see a set of new faces to play the story of the original five characters in the prequel.

Furthermore, director Shin Won Ho, the creator behind the Hospital Playlist and Reply series, will still be participating in the drama.

Meanwhile, A Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday is set to be released in the first half of 2024. As of writing, a final release date has yet to be announced. 

Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah’s previous dramas

With the confirmation of Go Yoon Jung and Shin Si Ah’s appearance in the spin-off, fans are even more thrilled to watch the show.

Currently, breakthrough star Go Yoon Jung has gained worldwide recognition through her portrayal of Jang Hui Soo in the recently concluded hit drama Moving. Before that, the 27-year old actress also showed her versatility in the 2022 drama Alchemy of Souls and its second season Light and Shadow. Additionally, she also played notable roles in the dramas Law School, Sweet Home, and He Is Psychometric.

On the other hand, rookie actress Shin Si Ah wrote her name in the film industry with her role in the 2022 movie The Witch: Part 2. The Other One.  A Life of a Resident That Will be Wise Someday will be her first lead role in a drama project.

Featured imag: Go Yoon Jung updates fans with new photos from recent shoot. Credit: Instagram/Go Yoon Jung

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K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Holland Calls Out Mnet for the 18+ Rating of Its Gay Dating Program

Holland attends a fashion event of Louis Vuitton in Seoul. Credit: Instagram/Holland

K-pop idol Holland, who’s a known member of the LGBTQ+ community, expressed his disappointment about MNet’s 18+ rating for its first gay dating program Provocative Dating Z.

On Wednesday, September 2, Holland, who also stars in the show, criticized the television network. In his series of social media posts, the openly gay singer deemed the age restriction was unnecessary. Since there was no provocative or explicit content, the idol shared that the rating shows Mnet’s unwillingness to allow more access to the program.

“The Mnet dating program ‘Provocative Dating Z’ in which I appeared, has been changed to an age restriction of 18+. I have doubts about it being classified as age-restricted content when it’s a pure same-sex dating program without any provocative scenes,” he said. 

 

Additionally, he wrote: “It deeply saddens me that in Korea, the love of gay individuals is considered unfit for minors to watch.”

Hosted by comedian Lee Eun Ji, the dating program released its first episode on September 6. Said show featured six queer contestants, including Holland, and their journey in the game of romance.

Netizens react, lobby for Holland and LGBTQ+ representation

Upon Holland’s statement, netizens shared their opinions and thanked the idol for speaking up on the matter.

“Thank you for always speaking up about this. Visibility matters and I’m glad you’re in this space to remind others we are enough as we are. Sending love and strength your way,” one wrote.

Known as the first openly gay idol in K-pop, Holland has long been advocating for LGBTQ+ representation and equality. In one of his previous tweets, the idol even mentioned his desire to give dreams and hope to young LGBTQ+ kids. 

For his part, Holland has exhibited pride in promoting queerness as a celebrity. Using his platform, he has presented ideas such as genderless dressing in his artistic endeavors, fulfilling his dreams for the LGBTQ+ community little by little.

Unfortunately, his journey hasn’t been easy. Since coming out, Holland has shared several accounts where he was met with backlash and discrimination.

Featured image: Holland attends a fashion event of Louis Vuitton in Seoul. Credit: Instagram/Holland

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K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

First Look: Blackpink’s Jisoo in the Film ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’

BLACKPINK's Jisoo will portray a fairy in 'Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman' movie. Credit: Article/Naver

Watch out, BLINKs! Jisoo of the global girl group BLACKPINK attracts attention once again but this time, for her special appearance in the film Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman. 

Directed by Kim Sung Sik, the film will tell the story of Dr. Cheon, played by actor Kang Dong Won, and his fake exorcism rituals. Here, Jisoo appears as a traditional fairy, captivating the viewers with her exceptional beauty.

During the film’s press conference, the director shared that while looking for an actress who would fit the image of a fairy, he thought of Jisoo after watching her in Snowdrop. Notably, the action-romance series marked Jisoo’s acting debut. There, she gained recognition for her performance in her first ever main role.

Meanwhile, her cameo appearance in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman would serve as her first participating in a movie. Despite it only being a brief stint, fans are eager to see Jisoo  for her acting comeback. 

The Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman  is set to hit theaters on September 27.

All praises for actress Jisoo in Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman

Since the news of Jisoo’s cameo was revealed, she has since earned praises from numerous big names in the industry.

Upon watching the special premiere, award-winning director Park Chan Wook gained attention for his remarks on Jisoo. The director was quite impressed with the singer. He is known to have created the masterpieces Oldboy, The Handmaiden, and Decision to Leave,

According to Park Chan Wook, he was shocked by the singer’s appearance. “Since it’s a small role, I thought a minor actor would take on the role. But while watching, I thought, “Was there such a beautiful minor actor?” and was shocked for a second, he said.

Meanwhile, Esom, Jisoo’s fellow co-star in the Snowdrop drama,  also expressed approval of the idol. “I wondered who could portray the fairy character if it were not Jisoo. That’s how beautiful she was,” the actress said in an interview. 

Other reviews from several Korean media outlets also showered Jisoo with positive comments.

“Jisoo is a character that cannot help but catch your attention, and the moment you meet her, the atmosphere in the theater is buzzing, raising expectations”, television network JTBC mentioned.

 

To no surprise, BLINKs, BLACKPINK’s fandom, also complimented Jisoo for her work as well. 

While the group is in the midst of their contract renewal process, fans are speculating that Jisoo will sign with an acting agency. As of writing,YG Entertainment reiterates that there’s still no final details about the group’s contract renewal.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jisoo will portray a fairy in ‘Dr. Cheon and Lost Talisman’ movie. Credit: Article/Naver

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Watch: Netflix Releases Trailer For ‘Doona’ Starring Bae Suzy

Bae Suzy in the teaser of romance drama series 'Doona.' Credit: Twitter/Netflix

The long wait is over, K-Drama fans! Actress Bae Suzy is making her acting comeback with the Netflix series Doona. 

On Thursday, September 21, Netflix released the official trailer for its upcoming romance drama, which stars Bae Suzy and Yang Se Jong. 

In the one-minute trailer, Suzy captivated the viewers’ attention with her jaw-dropping visuals. For this drama, Suzy will be playing the role of Doona, a former K-pop idol who left her glamorous celebrity life. 

Meanwhile, Yang Se Jong will play the role of an ordinary college student named Won Jun. His simple life will then change as he ends up sharing a house and falling in love with the mysterious Doona.

As seen in the preview teaser, Won Jun immediately gets starstruck upon seeing Doona as she enjoys the morning sun. Falling head over heels for her, Won Jun exclaims: “It’s my fault. Overstepping the mark without the conviction to do so”.

Then, things begin to escalate as the characters spend time together and the tension between them gets higher. The teaser ends with the two closing in for a kiss and Doona saying: “I’m telling you this just in case, but don’t fall for me either”.

Moreover, Netflix also released the drama’s posters with the characters’ intriguing lines. In the couple’s poster, it read:  “What will you do if I actually end up falling for you?”

Doona is set to be released on October 20.

Doona: Suzy and Se Jong’s comeback drama

Interestingly, the upcoming series directed by Crash Landing On You creator Lee Jeong-Hyo, will be Suzy’s first TV appearance in over a year. Her last project was the 2022 psychological thriller Anna. For that drama, Suzy gained recognition as she proved her versatility with the distinct role.

Suzy, who was given the title “Nation’s First Love”, has also etched her name as one of the most promising leading actresses in South Korea. Among her highly-acclaimed dramas include Start-Up, While You Were Sleeping, and Uncontrollably Fond. 

Notably, the former Miss A member made her acting debut in the high school drama Dream High. In the 2012 drama, she starred alongside singer-actors IU, Kim Soo Hyun, 2PM’s Taecyeon and Wooyoung, and Hahm Eun Jung.

On the other hand, Doona will also be the comeback drama for actor Yang Se Jong. His last TV appearance was when he made a cameo in the popular medical series Dr. Romantic in 2020.

Prior to that, Se Jong has starred as the main lead in the dramas Temperature of Love, Thirty But Seventeen, and My Country: The New Age.

Featured image: Bae Suzy in the teaser of romance drama series ‘Doona.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

YG Entertainment: Blackpink Contract Renewal Still Ongoing

BLACKPINK posing for a photo from their 'Shut Down' promotions. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

BLINKs, it seems like there’s a few more days of uncertainties as YG Entertainment revealed that the discussion on the BLACKPINK members’ contract renewal is still underway. 

On Thursday, September 21, the agency responded to reports and rumors surrounding the possible departure of several BLACKPINK members from YG Entertainment. 

“Currently, BLACKPINK’s contract renewal has not been confirmed and is being discussed,” the label told Korean media. 

Rumors surrounding BLACKPINK’s move 

At first, it was only member Lisa who was initially rumored to be not renewing her contract. 

Several reports and “industry insiders” have claimed that the Thai rapper has rejected two offers from YG. One of the alleged contracts is reportedly worth 50 billion South Korean won. 

Furthermore, other reports are claiming that Lisa might sign with an American agency instead. Aside from the worth of the contract, the deal also promises business and promotional opportunities for the artist. 

However, recent circulating reports are claiming that only member Rosé will be re-signing with YG Entertainment. Which means that Jennie and Jisoo will also leave the agency, aside from Lisa. 

According to the Daily Sports Seoul, the three members are in the final negotiations with other agencies. In the report, it also claimed that Jisoo is planning to expand her acting career. 

In response to these rumors, YG Entertainment reiterated that nothing has been finalized yet regarding the members’ contract. 

What future awaits BLACKPINK? 

For months, the ongoing saga about BLACKPINK’s contract renewal has caught the attention of the media. Given that the group marked their seventh debut anniversary on August 8, those familiar with the industry know that BLACKPINK’s renewal news is just around the corner. 

With the group primarily focusing on wrapping up their BORN PINK world tour, industry insiders are expecting that the announcement might be delayed until September or October. 

While many are already keen that most of the members will leave YG Entertainment, several reports have also raised discussions about the chances of the group renewing with the agency. Some reports have even projected possible payouts that the BLACKPINK members will receive should they stay with the label. 

However, given the uncertainties, it’s undeniable that it will shake YG Entertainment, with some reports showing that the agency’s stocks have plummeted. 

Even fans are concerned as there’s still no assurance whether BLACKPINK will stay together,  disband, focus on solo projects, or continue with group activities despite being in different agencies. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK posing for a photo from their ‘Shut Down’ promotions. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Weki Meki’s Choi Yoojung and ZB1’s Sung Hanbin Join Panel for New Dating Show

TVING has recently unveiled the panelists for its upcoming dating show, Blossom with Love. On September 21, the announcement confirmed that JaeJae, Moon Sanghoon, 10cm’s Kwon Jungyeol, Weki Meki’s Choi Yoojung, and ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Hanbin would join as panelists.

연프 맛집의 신규 연애 리얼리티💙 서툴고도 설렜던 그들의 첫사랑 | 1차 티저 | TVING

The show revolves around the captivating theme of first love as it relates to eight high school students. It aims to capture their emotional journeys as they navigate their feelings. The creative minds behind this program include producing director Lee Heesun of Transit Love (EXchange), PD Park Heeyeon of Street Food Fighter, and writer Lee Eunjoo of You Quiz On The Block.

JaeJae, known for her sharp perspective, will delve deep into the contestants’ emotions, providing a keen analysis. On the other hand, Moon Sanghoon will be a “counseling teacher” at the Blossom with Love base camp, guiding the participants through their emotional journeys. Adding a touch of humor to the show, 10cm’s Kwon Jungyeol will immerse himself in the contestants’ stories, ensuring there’s never a dull moment.

Blossom with Love has a great panel

Weki Meki’s Choi Yoojung stands out as the only panelist with an arts high school background. She will share her unique insights into life there, shedding light on the nuances of such an environment. Additionally, ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Hanbin joins the show as a special panelist. Being the youngest panelists, both Yoojung and Hanbin can relate to the contestants due to their similar ages. Their presence ensures that the contestants receive genuine support and understanding from individuals who have recently walked in their shoes.

With such a diverse and talented panel, Blossom with Love offers viewers a fresh perspective on dating and first love. The show is set to premiere on October 5, a date all hopeless romantics, K-pop fans, and reality show enthusiasts should look forward to.

Stay tuned for more updates on Blossom with Love and its star-studded panel. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: There’ll be no shortage of laughter and wisdom with this panel around. Source: Twitter/@bin_shining.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Veteran Actor Kim Nam-gil Talks About Being BTS’ Jin’s Role Model

In a recent episode of tvN’s Yoo Quiz on the Block, aired on September 20, the spotlight was on Kim Nam-gil. The actor delved into his close bond with BTS‘ Jin and expressed his feelings on being considered a role model by the global superstar. The episode was not just about this revelation; it also highlighted Kim Nam-gil‘s latest drama, Song of the Bandits.

@hour.jinnie

Actor Kim Nam Gil mentione Seokjin in You Quiz on the Block #update #seokjin #jin #kimseokjin #bts #bangtan #bighit_official_bts

♬ original sound – Jin Hourly

The show, hosted by Yoo Jae-suk, took a moment to commend Kim Nam-gil‘s iconic action scenes from his previous works. His portrayal of Bidam in Queen Seondeok stood out, leaving quite the impression on many, including BTS‘s Jin. Yoo Jae-suk reminisced about the actor’s journey, from passing an audition in 2003 to becoming a top-ranked talent and eventually landing the role of Bidam.

When asked about his reaction to Jin looking up to him after watching Queen Seondeok, Kim Nam-gil responded, “It’s touching to hear that I became a role model for someone.” He described Jin as talkative yet pure-hearted, emphasizing their shared personality traits. The two have met in person and spent quality time together, further strengthening their bond. Kim Nam-gil has since been vocal about supporting Jin’s potential acting career.

Kim Nam-gil has a soft spot for Jin

It’s widely known that Kim Nam-gil has a soft spot for Jin. In a previous interview, he mentioned being aware of Jin‘s admiration for him. Their first in-person meeting marked the beginning of a close-knit relationship. The veteran actor has since been vocal about supporting the BTS member should he go into acting.

Their camaraderie was evident during the VIP premiere of the film Emergency Declaration, in which Kim Nam-gil played a pivotal role. A behind-the-scenes video from the premiere showed how much he cared for his dongsaeng. His affectionate attitude towards Jin, introducing him to other veteran actors, including Parasite star Song Kang-ho, was a sight to behold.

In addition to discussing his bond with Jin, Kim Nam-gil also promoted his upcoming drama. Set to premiere on Netflix on September 22, Song of the Bandits will feature him in a leading role. The series boasts a stellar cast, including Yoo Jae Myung, SNSD‘s Seohyun, and many more. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jin has admired Nam-gil for years. They finally met for the first time in 2021., at a movie premiere. Source: Twitter/@charts_k.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Ex-BigHit Music Trainees Reveal How BTS Reacted When They Left

BTS has a history that those new to the fandom might find hard to believe. They began their journey with a then-bankrupt agency, BigHit Music. Their dedication and talent played a pivotal role in building the legacy of BigHit Music, which later evolved into the empire known as HYBE Corp.

BigHit decided to focus solely on BTS

However, the BTS we know today, consisting of seven members, wasn’t the initial lineup. BigHit Music was grooming several young talents to find the perfect combination for the group. As revealed in BTS‘ official biography, Beyond The Story, BigHit decided to focus solely on BTS’ debut due to limited resources. This decision meant letting go of their other trainees, including Hwan Jihwan and Kim Jihoon, who had to abandon their dreams of becoming idols.

[INT] What does it take to become BTS according to former trainees [Part 1]

In a recent interview with Korea Now, Jihoon and Jihwan shared their experiences. Kim Jihoon recalled the period when trainees were leaving BigHit almost weekly. When he was informed of his release, he wasn’t taken aback. Jihoon also spoke about Jungkook, stating, “After witnessing his genius, I realized I wouldn’t be able to achieve that skill level.” This realization made his departure from BigHit somewhat easier to digest.

[INT] What does it take to become BTS according to former trainees [Part 2]

Hwan Jihwan shared a similar sentiment. He believed that since BigHit primarily focused on his vocal training, he might not have been considered for BTS. Instead, he might have been slotted for another group the agency had in mind. When BTS finally debuted, Jihwan left, presuming BigHit was channeling all its resources towards BTS.

BTS’ reactions to their departure

One of the most touching moments from the interview was when Jihoon recounted the members’ reactions to their departure. He shared a poignant memory of RM. Despite Jihoon keeping his departure under wraps, RM somehow found out. During a dance practice, RM approached Jihoon, asking if he was leaving. The two had shared a close bond during Jihoon‘s one-year stint at BigHit. RM was visibly upset upon hearing the news, as he had already bid farewell to many trainee friends. Given their close friendship, Jihoon‘s departure was particularly heart-wrenching for RM.

Similarly, Jihwan mentioned that upon hearing his departure news, many of his trainee friends, including some original BTS members, comforted him. While the idol life might not have been in the cards for Jihoon and Jihwan, they have since carved out successful careers. Jihwan is now a vocal trainer at renowned institutions, and Jihoon has made a name for himself as a fitness trainer. 

Their stories serve as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, where dreams might diverge, but new paths can always be forged. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These two missed out on the opportunity of a lifetime, but they’re not salty about it. They have only nice things to say about BTS. Source: YouTube/@KOREANOWyna.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EVNNE Showed Off Their Smooth Moves on ‘Weekly Idol’

The K-pop world was set ablaze when EVNNE, a new boy group comprising seven former Boys Planet contestants, graced the Weekly Idol set on September 20. During the “Weekly Playlist” segment, a highlight of the show, EVNNE surprised fans with a dance cover of ENHYPEN‘s hit “BITE ME.” 

보여줄게, 이븐의 매력! ENHYPEN ＜Bite Me＞ l EP.631

But they didn’t stop there. The group continued to showcase their deep knowledge of K-pop choreography in a random play dance game. Here, Ji Yunseo, Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Mun Junghyun, Park Hanbin, Park Jihoo, and Yoo Seungeon danced to recent hits by other idols, including Jeon Somi‘s “Fast Forward,” NCT U‘s “Baggy Jeans,” and New Jeans‘ “ETA.”

빛날 준비 완료된 이브니들의 찬란한 K-POP 랜덤 플레이 댄스! l 방송선공개 l EP.631

Moving on, Hanbin displayed his musical prowess by playing “Merry-Go-Round of Life” from Howl’s Moving Castle on the flute. He also treated fans to a flute rendition of IVE‘s hit song “I AM.”

연주 폼 美쳤다~! 한콩이 플루트 연주로 들려주는 IVE의 ＜I AM＞ l EP.631

EVNNE still has a lot to show

In addition to their captivating performances, EVNNE dropped their first mini-album, Target: ME, on September 19. On Boys Planet, they honed their skills to the point where they could sing, rap, and dance live. This was evident in their energetic performance of “TROUBLE,” their first single. “We tried to portray attractive, mischievous, and wild boys that change the world in this song,” Seungeon remarked during their Seoul showcase.

[LIVE] EVNNE (이븐) “TROUBLE” Showcase| 4K

Keita, the group’s leader, previously debuted in 2021 with the K-pop boy group Ciipher. Embracing this new chapter with EVNNE, he expressed, “This is a re-debut, so there’s a lot of pressure on me. But I’m happy to have this new opportunity. I look forward to what’s to come and hope to show the best of me. All of our members are really passionate about music and love to give ideas. I think we will be able to introduce our own music in the future.”

Closing on a grateful note, Seungeon expressed, “We’re grateful for all the love and support of our fans who have given us a second chance to pursue our dreams. We still have a lot to show, so please look forward to our growth.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: EVNNE’s appearance was marked by friendly banter and lots of laughs. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BigHit Music Passes Board Resolution for BTS’ Contract Renewals

Contrary to prior reports suggesting that all seven members of BTS had already signed new deals with BigHit Music, it has now been confirmed that the renewals are still in progress. BigHit Music’s board passed a resolution to renew these contracts individually, taking into account each member’s unique circumstances.

For instance, j-hope and Jin won’t be able to sign anything until they’re discharged from the South Korean military. SUGA’s upcoming enlistment will also affect the timing of his renewal. The decision to pass a board resolution for these renewals is noteworthy. Such a move often indicates a significant financial arrangement in either cash or shares, which needs board approval. Sure enough, reports emerged that each BTS member would receive a hefty down payment upon renewing their contract.

Kim Hyeyoung of Daol Investment & Securities Co. Ltd. says, “The first contract renewal of BTS in 2018 totaled 7 billion KRW (5.2 million USD). Considering the previous renewal, the down payment is estimated to be over 21 billion KRW (15.65 million USD).” The terms of the members’ new deals remain under wraps, but industry speculations suggest a tenure of around five years, inclusive of the military service period.

BigHit, HYBE on the renewal process

BTS‘ financial trajectory has been impressive. Forbes reported in 2020 that the group’s cumulative earnings stood at 50 million USD. This figure surged to 150 million USD before HYBE’s then-CEO, Bang Si-hyuk, took the company public in October 2020. Given BTS‘ substantial contribution to HYBE’s revenue, accurate communication regarding their renewals is crucial to avoid potential legal ramifications.

BTS‘ rise has been meteoric from their debut in 2013 to their current superstardom. They have consistently ranked high on international music charts, set records at major U.S. award shows, and even delivered speeches at the United Nations. Their influence extends beyond music with their campaigns for UNICEF. Incidentally, BigHit Music will donate 1 billion KRW (752,000 USD) to UNICEF to celebrate the group’s commitment to the agency.

HYBE recently commented on the renewal process: “With this renewal, we aim to see BTS as a whole by 2025. We are committed to supporting the artists in every possible way to elevate BTS’ reputation further.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Contrary to previous reports, the BTS members haven’t signed new deals yet. Source: Weverse.

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