Author: Kpop News Writer

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Lee Seung-hwan Changes Stage Name to ‘ONLEE,’ Releases First Single

ONLEE

Former Boys Planet contestant Lee Seung-hwan has embarked on a new beginning by adopting the stage name ONLEE (a combination of his last name, “Lee,” and the word “only”) and releasing new material.

How did he get his start?

He began his K-pop journey as a contestant on Under Nineteen in 2018 and later joined the project group 1THE9. After the group disbanded in 2020, he tried different things. He went on SBS’ LOUD in 2021, and danced backup for ONEUS in 2022. A year later, he participated in Boys Planet. After the show, he joined Inyeon Entertainment. He then changed his name and made his solo debut with “Be With You” on September 9.

ONLEE(이승환) ‘그 영화처럼 우린(Be With You!)’ CONCEPT FILM

The song is special to him. Not only is it his first release after Boys Planet, but it’s also a heartfelt gift he prepared for the fans who supported him since the beginning of his career. He had a hand in composing, producing, and writing “Be With You.” The song is a masterful blend of powerful guitars and a refreshing pop sound. Its dramatic progression evokes scenes reminiscent of youth-oriented movies, immersing listeners in a cinematic experience. 

ONLEE engages with his supporters

Adding to the anticipation, ONLEE released a band video for “Be With You.” He says the track was his attempt to capture the emotion of longing to be by someone’s side. In this case, because he did it for his fans, it represents his desire to greet them however and whenever he can. His dedication to them extends beyond music. Since Boys Planet, he has actively engaged with his supporters, even hosting a solo fan meeting titled HWANDERLAND MT IN SUMMER in July.

[Official Video Band ver.] ONLEE(이승환) ‘그 영화처럼 우린(Be With You!)’

ONLEE’s first single, “Be With You,” is a testament to his unwavering commitment to music and his fans. With his new stage name and rejuvenated sound, he is determined to make a significant impact in the industry. As he embarks on this chapter, fans from all corners of the globe eagerly anticipate what ONLEE will do next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: His first single is an energetic pop-rock track that you can’t help but sing along to. Source: YouTube/@ONLEEOFFICIAL-im1mr.

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BTS’ Jungkook Bares His Soul for DAZED UK

Jungkook, a name synonymous with international musical success, graced the pages of DAZED UK to offer fans a glimpse into his world. As one of BTS‘s most prominent members, his journey from a young K-pop idol to a global pop icon is nothing short of inspiring.

The world stood still when he released his first solo single, “Seven.” This UK garage-influenced hit, featuring American rapper Latto, became a worldwide favorite. It was back in March, by Jungkook’s estimation, that he first heard “Seven,” and fell instantly in love with it. “We scheduled a recording session in Los Angeles right away and then a meeting about the video’s concept. Everything was such smooth sailing,” he recalls. Its meteoric rise on platforms like Spotify and YouTube is a testament to its global appeal.

Jungkook‘s relationship with music is so personal. He often relies on his instincts, which have rarely steered him wrong. “It’s kind of indescribable. I don’t get chills or anything like that, I just have a feeling, like this is going to work, this is it.”

Jungkook remains introspective

Despite the dizzying heights of fame, Jungkook remains introspective. He’s always worn his heart on his sleeve. “I’’m the type of person who is honest with their emotions,” he said. “I change quickly. I have to do the things I want to do right now.” This raw honesty endeared him to ARMY worldwide.

His interactions with fans, whether during international tours or through live broadcasts on their fan community platform, are always genuine. He’s been to London and New York, constantly under the limelight, yet Jungkook remains true to himself. “When I go on stage, my wandering thoughts and feelings die down,” he mused, highlighting the sanctuary the stage provides him.

The global pandemic, while challenging, also gave Jungkook a chance for introspection. He opened up about his internal battles, saying, “Rather than dwelling on missed opportunities and blaming myself for being lazy, I accept who I am and focus on what I can do,” he said. This self-awareness has been pivotal in his growth, both as an artist and an individual.

A beacon of authenticity

Over the years, Jungkook has evolved. From exploring new fitness regimes like boxing to expressing himself through piercings and tattoos, he’s on a journey of self-discovery. “I like extreme things,” he admitted with a chuckle. “People always tell me I look round and soft. I want this sharp, powerful image.”

As he looks to the future, Jungkook is filled with optimism and ambition. He’s ready and raring to push boundaries, explore various genres, and surprise fans. He reflected on his achievements and looked forward, “I trusted my gut with my single and thought, ‘Will I be able to reach the audience, and a lot of them?’ And I sort of proved that I could.”

In the ever-evolving world of music, Jungkook stands out as a beacon of authenticity. His interview with DAZED UK reveals the man behind the music and much more. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook is one of four celebrities fronting the cover of DAZED UK’s latest issue. Source: Twitter/@Dazed.

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RIIZE Becomes Million Seller in Just One Week After Debut

In an industry where success can be elusive, SM Entertainment’s new boy group, RIIZE, has made a resounding statement. Just one week into their debut, the group has already written their name in the annals of K-pop history as a “million seller.” This remarkable achievement underscores RIIZE’s immense popularity and the anticipation that surrounded their debut.

Last week, fans eagerly awaited the release of RIIZE‘s single album, “Get A Guitar,” along with its catchy title track of the same name. Their excitement was palpable, and the sales figures reflected this enthusiasm. Hanteo Chart, a trusted source for album sales data, reported that “Get A Guitar” sold over a million copies from September 4 to 10.

On the first day, its sales soared past 178,000 copies, a number that’s truly astounding for a rookie group. The momentum didn’t stop there. The second day saw sales figures ascend to an outstanding 310,500. Another 227,800 copies were sold on the last day. That brought the number of copies sold in the first week to more than 1,016,849.

RIIZE is only the second artist to achieve this

To put this into perspective, even when including groups formed through survival shows, RIIZE is only the second artist in Hanteo history to sell over a million copies of their first album in its debut week. The only other act to achieve this feat was the Boys Planet project group ZEROBASEONE, who set the record earlier this year. Their debut album, YOUTH IN THE SHADE, sold 1,833,028 copies in its first week.

The success of RIIZE‘s debut is a testament to their talent, the dedication of their fans, and the strategic planning of SM Entertainment. As the group continues its journey in the K-pop world, fans and industry insiders alike will be watching them closely. Who knows, the group might set or shatter other records in the future. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The members held a listening party on Stationhead to celebrate this achievement. Source: Twitter/@RIIZE_official.

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Billlie’s Moon Sua Takes Hiatus Due to Health Concerns

Moon Sua updates fans with new selfie. Credit: Facebook/BILLLIE

Moon Sua of K-pop girl group BILLLIE will be taking a break from her scheduled individual and group activities due to health reasons. 

On Tuesday, September 12, Billie’s agency Mystic Story released a statement about the idol’s condition. 

According to the label, Moon Sua needs “sufficient rest and stability for the time being.” However, Mystic Story didn’t provide additional details about the artist’s welfare.  

Then, the agency apologized to fans for the inconvenience caused by the sudden news. They also assured fans that they’re doing their best to help their artists improve their well-being.

With the recent hiatus announcement, Mystic Story shared that BILLLIE will continue promotions as a five-member group for the time being. Only Haram, Haruna, Sheon, Siyoon, and Tsuki will participate in the group’s activities. 

Additionally, Moon Sua’s hiatus came two months after fellow BILLLIE member Suhyeon announced her own hiatus. Suhyeon also halted activities to focus on recovery. 

Fans show support for Moon Sua

This isn’t the first time for Moon Sua to take a break from activities in 2023. 

Following the passing of her older brother, ASTRO’s Moon Bin in April, she also halted her activities as she was the chief mourner at the time. Her group, BILLIE, also canceled all of their activities for that week before Mystic Story announced that the group’s comeback promotions had been cut short and their upcoming schedules will push through without Moon Sua. 

During her earlier hiatus, she was absent on the group’s promotions for the album the Billage of perception: chapter three, as well as the group’s Japanese debut.

In June, she resumed her activities and returned to host Show Champion. 

With the announcement of her second hiatus for this year, fans took to social media to show their support for Moon Sua. Most of the replies and comments were the fans’ telling the idol to “get well soon,” and  “come back stronger.” 

Featured image: Moon Sua updates fans with new selfie. Credit: Facebook/BILLLIE

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‘Concrete Utopia’ Selected as Korea’s Entry for Oscars’ Best International Film Race

Park Seo joon in a still from the film 'Concrete Utopia.' Credit: Instagram/Lotte Entertainment

Heads up, fans of Korean movies! The disaster-thriller movie Concrete Utopia is set to compete for the Best International Feature Film category at the 2024 Oscars.

Starring veteran actors Lee Byung Hun, Park Seo Joon and Park Bo Young, Concrete Utopia was chosen unanimously by a seven-judge panel from the Korean Film Council.

 “We wanted to select a film that feels Korean but is also geared towards the global standard, that strikes a good balance between artistic and mainstream, and that can appeal to the Academy Awards, which is often perceived as conservative,” the council said in a press release. 

What is ‘Concrete Utopia’ about? 

Directed by Eom Tae-hwa, the science-fiction drama follows the story of survivors of a massive earthquake. Additionally, the film is loosely based on the second part of the popular webtoon Joyful Outcast. In which the second part is titled Pleasant Neighbors.

With Hwang Goong Apartment only the building left standing in the heart of Seoul, the characters are forced to expose their desires as they struggle for survival. Despite the leadership of Kim Young Tak, played by Our Blues actor Lee Byung Hun, the group disputes their different beliefs.

With this intriguing plot, the judges expounded on their reason for choosing Concrete Utopia. “At a time when global recession and natural disasters are hitting every corner of the globe, Concrete Utopia features not heroes, but ordinary people trying to survive,” they said. 

Only one film can be submitted in the Academy’s International Feature Film per country in each year. For Korea’s top two finalists for the submission, Concrete Utopia competed alongside black-comedy drama film Cobweb. 

As for the final nominees for the Best International Feature Film Category, it will be revealed on January 23, 2024. Meanwhile, the 96th Academy Awards will be held on March 10, 2024. 

Notably, South Korea has bagged its very first Oscars with Bong Joon Ho’s critically acclaimed Parasite in 2020. In total, the film took home four awards: Best Picture, Best Director, Best International Feature Film, and Best Original Screenplay.

Additionally, Parasite also marked its name in history as it became the first non-English film to win Oscars’ Best Picture.

Featured image: Park Seo joon in a still from the film ‘Concrete Utopia.’ Credit: Instagram/Lotte Entertainment

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Look: Tommy Hilfiger Selects Stray Kids as Their Ambassador

Stray Kids poses in Tommy Hilfiger apparel. Credit: Instagram/Vogue Korea

STAYs, you have another amazing collaboration to watch out for! K-pop boy group Stray Kids has been selected by Tommy Hilfiger as its Asian Ambassadors for its upcoming Fall 2023 brand campaign “Always Together”. 

In a teaser released on GQ Korea’s Youtube account on Monday, September 11, the eight members are seen stylishly posing with Tommy Hilfiger apparel.

Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin and I.N, are also featured in the different sections of the brand’s website, including Tommy Families, Everyday Essentials and Tommy Tartan.

Additionally, Vogue Korea also released youthful photos of the “S-Class” hitmakers wearing the brand. “The meaningful narrative of Stray Kids and Tommy Hilfiger, who become even more powerful when eight people come together, starts now.“

As per Tommy Hilfiger, the campaign is an all-out celebration of the brand values of belonging and inclusivity with a focus on family, which Stray Kids represents.

SKZ taking over the fashion industry

Stray Kids are indeed all over the world, taking over even the fashion industry. Aside from their recent team up with Tommy Hilfiger, the boy group has already been tapped as ambassadors for numerous brands.

In June, the “Maniac” singers were chosen as SLBS’ brand ambassadors. Through this partnership, the boy group worked closely with SLBS for their campaign called “Star to Galaxy.” For this campaign, they also released products in collaboration with Samsung.

Apart from group activities, the members have exhibited their impressive styles individually as well.

In July, Hyunjin was named as Versace’s newest global ambassador. Which made him the first K-Pop idol to achieve this feat. Described as a “true Versace man” by the brand’s chief creative officer Donatella Versace, he is set to front the brand’s Holiday 2023 campaign in November. 

Moreover, the group’s lead dancer Felix, has been tapped as Louis Vuitton’s ambassador. Described by the brand as a “multi-talented artist” who is “Internationally revered for his stellar stage”, Felix flaunted his visuals as Louis Vuitton announced the news in August.

Besides their fashion ventures, the group under JYP Entertainment are in the midst of their 5-STAR Dome Tour. One of their upcoming schedules also includes performing for the 2023 MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs). 

Featured image: Stray Kids poses in Tommy Hilfiger apparel. Credit: Instagram/Vogue Korea

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Former UNI.T Member Yoonjo and Actor Kim Dong Ho to Marry

Yoonjo shares photos from her wedding shoot with fiancé Kim Dongho. Credit: Instagram/Yoonjo

Love is indeed in the air as former Uni.T member Yoonjo and actor Kim Dong Ho announced that they are soon tying the knot!

On Monday, September 11, the singer penned a heartfelt message where she unveiled the delightful news to her fans. In the same post, Yoonjo also shared stunning photos from their wedding shoot.

“Today, I have something I want to tell you, so I am writing a handwritten letter for the first time in a long time. I’ve met the person I want to spend the rest of my life with, and we will get married before the cold winter comes,” Yoonjo said at the start of her letter.

Additionally, the singer reassured her fans that she is in good hands. She shared that her fiancé has been a huge source of strength for her and he has always remained by her side.

As she wrapped up her letter, Yoonjo expressed her gratitude to those who have sent them congratulatory messages. She also wished for everyone’s good health. “I’d like to sincerely thank everyone who congratulates us, and I hope that everyone will take care of their health in this changing weather, so that your days are both happy and healthy,” she said.

Meanwhile, her fiancé, actor Kim Dong Ho, also announced the happy news through his official fan cafe. “I met the person I want to be my lifelong partner, and we are getting married in November of this year,” the musical actor wrote. 

“Now, I’m going to start a new second act within the warm confines of my home.” he added.

Like Yoonjo, Dong Ho also thanked his fans and promised to repay their support by improving as an actor. “I am truly grateful to you all for loving and supporting me despite my shortcomings. I will work hard to repay you by becoming a more mature and wonderful actor,” he mentioned.

Other details about their wedding weren’t disclosed.

Congratulations Yoonjo and Dong Ho! 

Upon hearing the news, numerous celebrities have sent their well wishes to the bride-to-be, including her former members in Uni.T.

Singer-songwriter Yebin, Yoonjo’s former bandmate, said “My beloved sister, I congratulate you so much. Let’s be happy for the rest of your life”.

Aside from Yebin, NC.A, Yang Jiwon, and Hong Eui-Jin, also known as Hezz, also expressed their happiness with the news as they left cheerful remarks on Yoonjo’s post. Another Uni.T member Lee Suji, who also announced her marriage recently, sent her congratulatory message. 

It is indeed a blissful year for Uni.T as two of their members are getting married soon. Last September 9, Suji shared photos of the girl group in celebration of her bridal shower.

Featured image: Yoonjo shares photos from her wedding shoot with fiancé Kim Dongho. Credit: Instagram/Yoonjo

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Pre-Orders for TXT’s ‘The Name Chapter: Freefall’ Reach 2.35m Copies

With over a month left till their much-anticipated comeback, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) is already making waves in the music industry. On September 8, BIGHIT MUSIC announced that TXT had shattered their personal record for stock pre-orders in a mere eight days. The agency said in a statement, “Eight days after pre-orders opened, TXT’s third full-length album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL reached 2.35 million stock pre-orders.”

This achievement is noteworthy as the album surpassed the 2.34 million stock pre-orders of TXT’s previous release, The Name Chapter: TEMPTATION, in just over a week. With five weeks still to go before the album’s official release, fans and industry experts alike are excited to see how much higher these numbers will climb.

Stock pre-orders represent the estimated album demand, calculated using various factors, including the number of albums pre-ordered by fans. It’s a testament to the group’s growing popularity and the anticipation surrounding their new music.

What can we expect from The Name Chapter: FREEFALL?

So, what can fans expect from The Name Chapter: FREEFALL? The members have hinted that the closing track of their previous release, “Farewell Neverland,” provides significant clues. The lyrics “Neverland my love, I bid you goodbye and I’m free-falling” suggest a potential indie-rock influence. If this is the direction TXT is heading, fans are in for a treat.

Details about the album’s different versions have also been revealed. Fans can choose from three standard editions: Clarity, Melancholy, and Reality. Additionally, there are Gravity member versions and two Weverse versions. Interestingly, these details have been shared without a single concept photo being released, further fueling the excitement.

A collaboration with Anitta

As part of their comeback strategy, TXT has announced a collaboration with Brazilian pop sensation Anitta titled “Back for More.” Anitta recently shared several behind-the-scenes details, revealing her trip to South Korea to possibly film a music video with TXT. She confirmed that the song has full choreography, which she described as challenging. The members of TXT have expressed their love for the track, with Soobin even telling fans it might be his favorite.

The world will get a first taste of this collaboration at the MTV Video Music Awards on September 13, where TXT and Anitta will premiere the song. With the album set to drop on October 13 at 1:00 PM KST, the countdown has truly begun. Fans worldwide are eagerly waiting to dive into the musical journey that TXT has prepared with The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The anticipation for TXT’s new music has reached fever pitch. Source: Weverse.

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Fans React to BL Plotline in ‘A Time Called You’

Netflix’s original series A Time Called You set tongues wagging with the unexpected appearance of SF9’s Rowoon. This drama, an official remake of the Taiwanese series Some Day or One Day, stars Ahn Hyo-seop, Jeon Yeo-been, and Kang Hoon in pivotal roles. The narrative, laden with drama and emotions, revolves around three main characters: In-gyu, Jun-hee, and Si-heon.

Fans who diligently followed the twelve-episode drama were surprised to see Rowoon in an intriguing role. Ahn Hyo-seop plays dual roles in A Time Called You. One of his characters, Yeon-jun, goes to cram school with Rowoon’s character, Tae-ha. Their interactions left audiences with bated breath, eagerly anticipating what would come next. Anticipation peaked when the two hung out on a rooftop, their nervousness palpable, hinting at a possible romantic connection.

Moving forward in the drama’s eighth episode, Tae-ha and Yeon-jun go on a road trip. Despite their nervousness, Tae-ha eventually takes Yeon-jun’s hand and squeezes it, signaling their readiness to embrace their feelings and go public with their relationship. However, this budding romance meets a heart-wrenching end with a tragic car accident.

https://www.tiktok.com/@mi_bellaluna_/video/7277381666920844549?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

Fans are shipping Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon

Fans know the chemistry between Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon isn’t just for show. They actually are close in real life. They got to know each other through another actor, Lee Jae-wook. This trio has been seen together at various public events. They’ve even vacationed together. Ergo, seeing Rowoon in this role was a delightful surprise for many. No one expected a mainstream K-drama to do a scene like this.

What thrilled fans was the way both actors pulled off their scenes together. This marked the first time either of them played characters in a same-sex relationship. Drawing a parallel, another SF9 member, Zuho, previously starred in the hit BL drama Starstruck. Given fans’ positive reactions to this cameo, many are hopeful that Ahn Hyo-seop and Rowoon will do a real BL drama in the future.

The emotional roller-coaster ride that is A Time Called You is available for streaming on Netflix. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their characters had barely confessed to each other when tragedy struck., quite literally. Source: Twitter/@honeydewinmylyf.

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Ahn Hyo-seop, Kim Seon-ho, and More to Attend 2023 Asia Artist Awards

The entertainment industry is abuzz with excitement as actors Ahn Hyo-seop, Kim Se-jeong, Kim Seon-ho, and Moon Ga-young confirm their participation in the 2023 Asia Artist Awards. Set for December 14th at the Philippine Arena, the event promises to be a dazzling affair.

Ahn Hyo-seop, another actor making waves in the industry, clinched the Best Actor Award at the 2020 Asia Artist Awards. Dramas like Lovers of the Red Sky and Romantic Doctor, Teacher Kim solidified his reputation as one of South Korea’s top stars. His recent dual role in Into Your Time showcased his unique charm. As if that wasn’t enough, he’s also a talented dancer and singer.

Kim Se-jeong has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. After making her name in music with her stint in girl group I.O.I., she became a top actress. She has left an indelible mark in shows like The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch. Her recent return to music saw the release of her album Door, with a solo concert tour on the horizon.

The 2023 Asia Artist Awards will be grand

Kim Seon-ho is riding high on his success from the previous year. He took home four awards at the 2022 Asia Artist Awards, including the coveted DCM Popularity Award in the Male Actor category and the Idol Plus Popularity Award. His performances in dramas like Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha and Start-Up earned him significant acclaim. Furthermore, his ongoing Asia tour has been a massive hit, with plans to continue in Singapore.

Moon Ga-young, the recipient of the Emotive Actor Award at the 2021 Asia Artist Awards, will be at this year’s ceremony after a two-year hiatus. She is best known for her roles in Find Me in Your Memory and True Beauty, among others. Her most recent show, The Interest of Love, earned her critical acclaim.

The Asia Artist Awards is a collaboration between the organizing committee, PULP Live World, Star News, and TONZ Entertainment. With MCs like Jang Wonyoung, Kang Daniel, and Sung Hanbin, and attendees including NewJeans and LE SSERAFIM, the event is already garnering global attention. It’s shaping up to be grand, and fans can’t wait to see their idols in person. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These actors confirmed their attendance. Sources: Twitter/@kdramasunrise and @TheAnnyeongOppa.

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