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BTS’ Jungkook, Tomorrow X Together Celebrate VMAs Win With Bang PD

It’s the time to have fun, ARMYs and MOAs as BTSJungkook and TOMORROW X TOGETHER celebrated their first VMAs wins, as well as Yeonjun’s birthday with Bang PD! 

In a series of Instagram Stories uploaded by BIGHIT and HYBE Founder Bang Si Hyuk, the artists are seen having dinner together after the awards show with “Hitman Bang” himself.  

“They tore up the stage tonight,” Bang PD wrote, referring to TXT’s debut performance at the MTV VMAs. 

Aside from the awards, the BIGHIT family also celebrated Yeonjun’s 24th birthday. In another video, the singer is seen blowing out candles on his cake. In the caption, Bang PD wrote: “Happy Birthday, Yeonjun.” 

https://twitter.com/TXTSYBTHK/status/1701877414782202050

Moreover, Bang PD also shared videos of him with BTS’ Jungkook. As seen in his Instagram story, the two were throwing up random hand signs. Interestingly, Bang PD hinted that “There’s a spoiler! A big one,” in the said video. Which left fans guessing what it possibly meant, with many thinking that it’s for another solo release. 

https://twitter.com/_RapperJK/status/1701902427237097797

Prior to this video with Bang PD, Jungkook has already expressed his plans to release his first mini album in November. Additionally, in the Suchwita episode where Jungkook appeared as a guest, he also revealed that he is gearing up to drop new music later this year.

TXT and Jungkook’s VMA wins

With the recently concluded MTV VMAs, TXT made history as they became the first fourth generation group to win at the awards show. There, the group took home the Push Performance of the Year award for their track “Sugar Rush Ride.”

Moreover, TXT also wowed the crowd with the premiere performance of their pre-release single “Back for More”, featuring Brazilian singer Anitta. With this team up, TXT became the first K-Pop group to showcase a genre-fusing collaboration at the VMAs.

On the other hand, their fellow BIGHIT artist, BTSJungkook also bagged his first VMAs win. Though he did not attend the event, the all-rounder singer took home the Song of the Summer title with his viral hit “Seven”, featuring Latto. With this, Jungkook became the first Korean solo artist to win in the category. 

Featured image: Bang PD hangs out with BTS’ Jungkook and TOMORROW X Together. Credit: Instagram/Bang PD

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Rookie Group POW Drops Pre-release Single ‘Favorite’

Grid Entertainment’s multinational boy group POW has finally taken its first step into the limelight with “Favorite.” This song, released before their official debut on October 11, marks the beginning of their highly-anticipated journey in the music industry.

The five members of POWDongyeon, Hong, Hyunbin, Jungbin, and Yorch—recently held a presscon in Seoul. There, the group introduced themselves and their music to the world. “We’re excited and nervous to meet our fans a month earlier,” expressed Hyunbin. “We’ll grow and improve as we head toward our debut, so please look forward to our journey.” Echoing his sentiments, Thai actor-singer Yorch stated, “We’ve waited a long time for this moment. We’ll give it our best shot.”

The band’s name, POW, isn’t just a catchy moniker. As the leader Jungbin explained, it represents their goal to “blow up the K-pop scene with their innovative and fun energy.” Their single “Favorite” encapsulates this vision. It’s a pop-punk dance tune that exudes innocent, youthful vigor. The lyrics convey the exhilaration of being in love. Accompanying it is a music video inspired by European youth culture. Hyunbin described it as “portraying the dreamlike, beautiful energy of youth our age,” with shots of the picturesque German countryside.

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ M/V

There’s more to come from POW

As “Favorite” sets the stage for POW‘s official debut, fans can also anticipate an album. Dongyeon revealed that their upcoming EP would encompass a range of concepts, “from first love to spirits of boyhood.”

POW‘s inception has garnered international attention, primarily because they’re the first boy group to be launched by Grid Entertainment. This label is a subsidiary of 131 Label, home to rapper-singer B.I. Adding to their mystique is Yorch‘s history. He previously trained under BTS‘ company, BigHit Music. He was also part of the agency’s ill-fated pre-debut team, called Trainee A. Reflecting on his journey, Yorch said, “I felt lost and wanted to rest when I returned to Thailand. I was discouraged and wanted to give up on becoming a K-pop artist.” However, after several meetings with Grid’s CEO, and bonding with the other members, he joined POW.

The band’s strength, as emphasized by the members, lies in their teamwork. Each member brings a unique flair to the group, but together, they create a beautiful synergy. They look up to the group SEVENTEEN. In fact, Jungbin said, “SEVENTEEN shows a powerful energy onstage. We also hope to become a group that could share bright and encouraging energy.” – K-Pop News Writer

 

 

 

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ LYRIC VIDEO

Featured Image: Their energy is reflected in their lyric video. Source: YouTube/@POW_Official.

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Phunky Studios Slaps Yoo Junwon with a Mega 3 Billion Won Lawsuit

In a shocking turn of events, Phunky Studios, the production company behind the MBC survival show Fantasy Boys, has taken legal action against Yoo Junwon. The suit comes after the trainee’s sudden exit from the group, right on the cusp of his debut. The Seoul Central District Court has confirmed receipt of the case, with the production company demanding a staggering 3 billion KRW in damages.

Yoo Junwon‘s journey in the limelight began when he clinched first place on the show. This victory paved the way for his inclusion in the debut group. However, his happiness was short-lived. Just a month before the group’s much-anticipated launch, the budding idol suddenly decided to leave.

Yoo Junwon had troublesome parents

PocketDol Studio, responsible for managing the group, shed light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil. They revealed that they and Yoo Junwon’s parents had engaged in extensive contract discussions, revisiting the terms over ten times. “Our company discussed the contract with him and his parents over ten times immediately after the program ended. Despite the contract being written according to the standard terms recommended by the Fair Trade Commission, his parents requested a revision of the contract,” they said. The bone of contention? An increased profit distribution rate, justified by Yoo Junwon‘s first-place finish in the program’s voting compared to other members.

The studio further elaborated, “If we adjust the profit distribution rate differently for members based on the final voting rank, there could be an issue of fairness. We explained sufficiently every time why we couldn’t do that. However, Yoo Junwon‘s parents unauthorizedly took Yoo Junwon out twice and finally notified that he would not join the team.”

Fantasy Boys remains undeterred

Despite the void left by its first-place winner, Fantasy Boys remains undeterred. The group is still on track to make its official debut on September 21 KST, featuring the remaining 11 members. Fans can hardly wait for their debut album, NEW TOMORROW, set to drop on September 16.

In K-pop, controversies aren’t unusual. However, this lawsuit’s magnitude and its circumstances sent shockwaves throughout the industry. As the legal battle begins, fans and industry insiders alike are hoping for a resolution that serves the best interests of all involved. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Junwon went from center to defendant real quick. Source: Twitter/@nugubgs_.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

K-Drama ‘My Lovely Liar’ Shocks Viewers with Unexpected BL Twist

The hit K-drama My Lovely Liar has been a rollercoaster of emotions for its viewers. As the series finale nears, a shocking plot twist left fans reeling. My Lovely Liar revolves around the relationship between composer-turned-murder suspect Kim Do Ha, played by actor-singer Hwang Min Hyun, and “liar hunter” Mok Sol Hee, portrayed by Kim So Hyun. 

My Lovely Liar | Official Trailer | CJ ENM

Mok Sol Hee possesses a unique ability to discern lies, a gift she considers a curse. Because of this, she has trouble trusting people, leading her to cross paths with Kim Do Ha, who vehemently claims his innocence in a murder case.

My Lovely Liar has been building tension around the death of Kim Do Ha’s ex-girlfriend, Choi Eom Ji. Despite his claims of innocence, many still suspect Kim Do Ha of her murder. However, the truth began to unfold in the recent episodes. Cho Jae Chan, played by Nam Hyun Woo, confessed to the murder, revealing a love triangle that ended in tragedy. He claimed to have accidentally killed Eom Ji after she spurned his advances. As evidence, he presented a ring that matched one found next to her body.

범인이 끼던 커플링?! 점점 더 확실해지는 살인범의 실루엣 #소용없어거짓말 EP.13

The ‘My Lovely Liar’ plot thickens

However, Detective Lee Kang Min grew skeptical when inconsistencies appeared in Jae Chan’s story. With Sol Hee’s unique skillset, they discovered that Jae Chan was not the true culprit. Instead, the plot thickened as they unearthed a deeper conspiracy involving Jae Chan’s older brother, Cho Deuk Chan (played by Yoon Ji On), the CEO of J Entertainment and Kim Do Ha’s close friend.

In a heart-stopping moment, Sol Hee found a Polaroid in Deuk Chan’s office, hinting at his feelings for Do Ha. The revelation that Deuk Chan had feelings for his best friend, Kim Do Ha, was a twist few viewers saw coming. The drama reached its climax when Deuk Chan, confronted with the truth, suffered a panic attack and was apprehended by the police. However, in a desperate escape bid, he met a tragic end in a car accident.

[폭발엔딩] 벼랑 끝에 몰린 윤지온의 도주, 그리고 폭발한 차! #소용없어거짓말 EP.14

Viewers took to social media to express disbelief at the unexpected turn of events. The revelation that Deuk Chan harbored an unrequited love for Do Ha for over fifteen years was a twist that left many speechless. This plot twist highlights a growing trend in K-dramas, where non-BL (Boys’ Love) series introduce queer storylines. However, the portrayals of these characters often end tragically, leaving viewers longing for more positive queer representation. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: To call ‘My Lovely Liar’ a rollercoaster ride would be an understatement. Source: YouTube/@tvNdrama.

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BTS’ Jungkook Wins ‘Song of the Summer’ at 2023 MTV VMAs

On September 13th, BigHit Music proudly announced a monumental achievement for BTSJungkook. His first solo single, “Seven (feat. Latto),” was proclaimed Song of the Summer at the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards, held at the Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. This accolade isn’t just a testament to the song’s global appeal and marks Jungkook as the first Korean soloist to win in this category.

In 2021, BTS‘s chart-topping hit “Butter” had secured this title, underscoring Jungkook‘s immense popularity both as a member of BTS and as a soloist. The Song of the Summer award is determined by fans’ votes and carries significant weight in the industry. Notably, this isn’t his first brush with the MTV VMAs. Last year, he was nominated for his collaboration with Charlie Puth. His nomination for Song of the Summer this year, for the second straight time, had fans buzzing with anticipation. His win further cements his global stature as a soloist.

“Seven (feat. Latto)” hasn’t just been a hit at award shows. According to a recent chart released by Billboard on September 12, the song ranked No. 37 on the Hot 100. Impressively, right after its debut, it rocketed to the top of this chart and has consistently stayed in the upper ranks for eight straight weeks. Finally, the song ranked first in Global (excluding the US) and second in Global 200 for eight straight weeks. The only other K-pop track to achieve similar success in ‘Global (excluding the US)’ is BTS“Dynamite.”

What will Jungkook do next?

But the accolades don’t stop there. Jungkook is set to make another significant mark on the global stage. He will headline the 2023 Global Citizen Festival in Central Park, New York, on September 23. This festival, organized by the New York-based international civic group Global Citizen, has been a platform since 2012 to raise awareness about pressing issues like climate change, extreme poverty, and famine. Fans earn free tickets to this event by taking actions that help end extreme poverty. BTS did “Permission to Dance” and “Butter” at the 2021 edition of this festival. Jungkook will be the first K-pop soloist to headline it, joining other notable headliners like Lauryn Hill and the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

In a press release, Jungkook expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “I’m really excited to perform at the Global Citizen Festival as a headliner. I’m happy to be part of a festival that has a good motive. I’m looking forward to performing at the festival.”

With such accomplishments, Jungkook continues to break barriers and set new records in the world of K-pop, proving that his immense talent truly knows no bounds. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook didn’t have to attend the VMAs to make waves at the ceremony. Source: Twitter/@Dazed.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Actor Kang Hoon on Playing a High School Student in His 30s

In the bustling world of Korean drama, few transformations have been as intriguing as that of actor Kang Hoon for Netflix’s A Time Called You. At 32, Kang Hoon took on the challenge of playing an 18-year-old high school student, a role that required both physical and emotional adjustments.

The narrative of A Time Called You is as unexpected as it is captivating. The protagonist, Junhee, played by Jeon Yeo Bin, is transported to the year 1998 after a heart-wrenching loss. Fate leads her to Si Heon, played by Ahn Hyo Seop, who bears an uncanny resemblance to her late partner. Alongside Si Heon is his friend, In Gyu, a character that Kang Hoon masterfully brings to life. This drama, rich in twists and turns, is an adaptation of a Taiwanese series.

https://www.tiktok.com/@kangchwl/video/7277626604098964742?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

Diving into the character

Diving into the character of In Gyu, Kang Hoon faced the unique challenge of revisiting his youth. He said, “Putting on a school uniform didn’t invoke pressure. It brought nostalgia instead. I imagined putting on the uniform would take me back to my school days, but I felt the metamorphosis into a student from the moment I stepped onto the set.”

That metamorphosis wasn’t just emotional. Kang Hoon’s role required a physical transformation as well. He shared, “Recalling my school memories and integrating them into my performance often occurred. I received varied feedback—some stated I was convincing as a high schooler, and others disagreed. However, I chose not to pay much attention to those negatives.”

The actor’s commitment to authenticity extended to his physical appearance. When asked about the secret to his youthful look, Kang Hoon revealed, “I exercised a lot but soon realized it was not a common habit among school-aged adolescents. I decided to refrain from extensive workouts and focused on weight loss instead.” His dedication bore fruit as he lost almost 18 pounds, ensuring he resembled a typical high school student.

Kang Hoon and his remarkable transformation

At a towering height of 184cm (6.1ft), Kang Hoon’s transformation was all the more remarkable. He elaborated on his weight journey, stating, “My usual weight fluctuates around 74kg (~163lbs). Being lean seemed appropriate for a student’s role. Even though I did exercise during my school days, I was relatively skinny. Most of my friends were overweight or skinny.” This further highlighted the lengths to which the actor went to ensure an authentic portrayal.

Kang Hoon’s dedication to A Time Called You is a shining example of an actor’s commitment to their craft. By intertwining his personal memories with the character’s narrative and undergoing a significant physical transformation, he solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor in the world of K-dramas. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: He’s in his 30s, but he looks so much younger! Source: Twitter/@kanghoonarchive.

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CNBLUE’s Yonghwa Recalls ‘We Got Married’ Stint With SNSD’s Seohyun

Rejoice, Goguma couple shippers! Yonghwa of CNBLUE has just gifted their fans some crumbs from his and SNSD’s Seohyun’s virtual marriage on the reality variety show We Got Married.

On Monday, September 11, the vocalist appeared as a guest on MC Kangnam’s Youtube show My Neighborhood Friend Kangnami. In the episode, Kangnam brought back Yonghwa’s previous work with the youngest member of SNSD. 

In 2010, Yonghwa and Seohyun, or the YoungSeo couple, acted as newlyweds for We Got Married. Nicknamed as “Goguma couple” (sweet potato couple), the two idols garnered popularity and support due to their enthralling chemistry. 

During their We Got Married stint, the two gained attention for their supposed innocent love as Seohyun didn’t have romantic relationships prior to that.

Additionally, the YoungSeo couple were also known for being musically-inclined. With this, the two even composed their own song and performed it in front of a crowd. 

Unsurprisingly, fans even rooted for the couple’s relationship in real life.

Yonghwa looks back on his YoungSeo stint 

Reminiscing about the past, Yonghwa revealed that despite people thinking it was all an act, their “marriage” was largely unscripted. 

Moreover, the singer also unveiled the story behind their lost “couple ring.” Yonghwa clarified that his viral clip of searching for the ring during a live performance on Music Core was real.

“It’s really real. The ring I bought with Seohyun at a fancy stationery store was cheap. So it easily corroded and it fell. But I didn’t lose it. As soon as the stage was over, I searched for it and that is what came out,” he said in the show.

On social media, fans of the virtual couple expressed their excitement on having the YoungSeo days being talked about. Especially since it’s been nearly 13 years since Yonghwa and Seohyun starred in the series. 

More about WGM

For those unaware, We Got Married is an MBC reality show that allows male and female celebrities – from idol group members, actors, or TV personas – to take part in a virtual marriage for a certain period of time. The couples are given tasks which help develop their relationship. 

Other famous couples who also appeared in the show include BTOB’s Yook Sungjae and Red Velvet’s Joy, f(x)’s Victoria and 2PM’s Nickhun, and actor Namkoong Min and singer Hong Jin Young, among many others.

With the series’ first launch in February 2008, WGM aired for a total of four seasons before its final episode in May 2017. With its immense popularity, the show inspired several spin-offs, including a global edition.

Featured image: CNBLUE’s Yonghwa and SNSD’s Seohyun during their last day of filming ‘We Got Married.’ Credit: YouTube/MBC

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Former DKZ Member Kyoungyoon Enlists in the Military

Kyoungyoon, a former member of DKZ, has begun his mandatory military service.

On Monday, September 11, Kyoungyoon’s agency Dongyo Entertainment revealed that the singer had enlisted as an active-duty soldier in the army that same day.

According to the agency, it was Kyoungyoon’s personal wish to enlist quietly and diligently in the military. They then asked for the fans’ understanding for the lack of prior notice.

Moreover, Dongyo Entertainment also asked fans to send Kyoungyoon their warm support and wishes for good health as he fulfills his mandatory duties.

With this, the idol is expected to be discharged from the military in 2025.

Kyoungyoon leaving DKZ

Kyoungyoon’s military enlistment comes just a month after he left the group. 

At the start of the year, the former DKZ member received public criticism after being embroiled with the controversial JMS cult. Said cult was spotlighted in the 2023 Netflix documentary series In the Name of God: A Holy Betrayal.

The eight-part series released in March exposed four cult leaders and their dreadful practices. One of them was the JMS Church founded by its leader Jung Myung Seok.

As the series caused a stir online, viewers found out a long list of names and businesses allegedly run by JMS followers. One of the alleged affiliations include a cafe run by Kyoungyoon’s parents.

In response to the accusations, Kyoungyoon and his agency claimed that he was unaware of his parents’ ties with the infamous church. As per their statement, the family’s business immediately ceased operations following the controversy. Additionally, the family disclosed that they would not have any association with JMS in the future.

Following the controversy,  Dongyo Entertainment posted a notice in April to announce that Kyoungyoon will be taking a hiatus. Moreover, the agency explained that the idol is suffering from anxiety disorder and sociophobia

In August, Kyoungyoon returned with the sad news of him leaving the group. Through a handwritten letter, the singer opened up about his decision. 

“I spent time thinking a lot over the past five months. After thinking about the best choice for all the people I care about, I came to the conclusion that I should let DKZ‘s Kyoungyoon go.”

As he ended his message, he hoped the fans would understand his choice. He also wholeheartedly thanked them for loving and supporting his journey in the group. 

Featured image: Kyoungyoon updates fans with new photos. Credit: Instagram/Kyoungyoon

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Stray Kids and Tomorrow X Together Both Bag Their 1st Vmas Award

Jump for joy, MOAs and STAYs! TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) and Stray Kids have both won at the 2023 MTV Music Video Awards (VMAs) held on Tuesday, September 12, at New Jersey, USA. 

At the start of the ceremony, TXT brought home the Push Performance of the Year award with their recent track “Sugar Rush Ride.” With this achievement, TXT becomes the first fourth generation group to win at the said awards show.

Upon receiving their first moon person, the five member boy group expressed their gratitude and love towards their fandom, MOAs. “We wanted to show who we are and our music with lots of people, this award means that we did that.” Huening Kai said. “Tonight is a night we’ll remember forever,” Beomgyu added.

Shortly after TXT brought home their award, it was announced that Stray Kids has won the Best K-Pop category for their hit track “S-Class.”

Surprised they bagged the award, the group’s leader Bang Chan stated: “We’ve been making our music ever since the start of our career, but to receive this award just really means a lot to us”.

With their fans in mind, Felix added: “We wanna thank our fans, our STAYs, for being so supportive and we have so much to show you guys so please look forward to the future.”

As Stray Kids was announced as winners, their fellow South Korean boy group TXT were seen showing their support and giving a round of applause for the God’s Menu’ singers. 

Interestingly, this year’s event marked the first for two K-pop acts to perform at the VMAs. In the previous years, only worldwide superstars BTS and BLACKPINK have achieved this stunt. 

More about TXT and Stray Kids at VMAs 2023

What made TXT and Stray Kids’ first wins at the VMAs even more special is that it’s the both acts’ first time at the said music awards. 

To make things more exciting, both K-pop acts also showcased their talents in the ceremony. 

For their part, TXT premiered their collaboration with Brazilian singer Anitta. Said song is a pre-release track from their upcoming studio album ‘The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.” 

Meanwhile, Stray Kids wowed the crowd with their performance of “S-Class.”

Featured image: Stray Kids at the red carpet of MTV Video Music Awards. Credit: Twitter/VMA

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ RM Posts Heartfelt Letter on Weverse for His 29th Birthday

BTSRM, born Kim Namjoon, recently took to Weverse to share a heartfelt letter with fans on his 29th birthday. As he stood on the threshold of a new decade, the septet’s leader reflected on his journey in the limelight.

In his letter, RM delved into all the challenges and joys of growing up in the public eye. He touched upon the lessons he learned in his twenties and the complexities of navigating fame. Despite facing criticism and not always being “loved” in whatever “form” he takes, he emphasized his desire to give back the immense love he has received.

RM wrote on the band’s Weverse page: “Hello. It’s the last birthday of my 20s. I don’t know if it’s because of the characteristics of the field I work in, but birthdays always get accompanied by a bit of bashfulness. I think of it as an ordinary day, but since many people congratulate me sincerely, I feel quite happy and blessed.”

He added, “I often think of the thought that love is like a name being given to someone. Until Kim Namjoon becomes ‘Kim Namjoon.’ It is just a day amongst the plentiful 365 days, but the fact that this day doesn’t feel like just a passing day to the twenty-nine-year-old me is because of you all.”

RM is ‘living really well’

RM‘s introspection made him ponder the relationship between artists and fans. He questioned the boundaries of this bond and the nature of the ties that bind them. “Can it all be accepted under the kind apparition or phantom called ‘love’? Even now, I’m going through the experience of exposures becoming weaknesses, and honesty becoming wounds, but I don’t know yet,” he shared.

He also touched upon the evolution of his words and thoughts, noting, “Before I said that, I’m sad that my words keep getting more complicated as time goes on. That fact seems to still be the same. But even then, I’ve become calmer. These days, I live with the thought of ‘why not.’ Explained by all the love I’m getting, I’m living while sharing optimism. And it’s also going in my next songs that will come out someday.”

RM ended his letter with a profound reflection on his journey with BTS and the love he received. “The feeling that no matter which version of me it’d have been, I would’ve been writing this letter to you in September 2023. My birthday letters are each a different love language of where I have reached at that present time. And because of you all, I’m living really well. I want to live well.”

He added, “I just wanted to let you all know that I love you with the latest version of me. I cannot hug each and every one of you but know that my feelings are more than that. I won’t ask you to love me no matter what my form is. But I want to try and make an effort for as much as I’ve received.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’ leader waxed philosophical for his birthday. Source: Twitter/@LemonamuRM.

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