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Seventeen’s Joshua Gets Emotional in Japan Concert Following Dating Controversy

Joshua of K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN couldn’t help but burst into tears at the continuous support of their fans following his recent dating controversy. 

On September 6 to 7, the “Super” hitmakers held their FOLLOW concert at the Tokyo Dome. While the performances were impeccable, the members’ ending messages particularly moved the fans.

Joshua, specifically, couldn’t help but get emotional as he talked about the strong bond between SEVENTEEN and CARATs. 

“You have become the motivation for me to work with all my might and more in my activities,” he said. “CARATs will always be the force that drives me. So that I can convey my feelings to CARATs, I will work even harder going forward.” 

 

During the second day of the show, Joshua once again expressed his gratitude to their supporters. “Just being able to see all of you, whether you’re cheering for me or helping me become a better person has been incredible.” 

 

Joshua’s dating controversies

While this might be a usual gratitude message for others, CARATs know that Joshua’s message hold more weight as it’s the idol’s first concert following his dating controversy. 

In early August, speculations that Joshua is dating model/influencer Mi Young circulated online. Such rumors came due to footage of the two allegedly wearing the same products and taking photos in similar locations within the same time. 

Although other fans have debunked the allegations, there were unfortunately some antis who boycotted and protested against the idol. 

Aside from the model/influencer, Joshua was also linked to former MOMOLAND member Jane. To which Jane was quick to deny. Moreover, Jane emphasized that she never even personally met the SEVENTEEN member. 

Even without directly addressing the rumors, the controversy obviously took a toll on Joshua as he maintained a low profile on social media. He also appeared visibly exhausted in public. 

 

Be Loud For Joshua

Following Joshua’s poignant moment at the concert, many fans were quick to show their support for the idol. Hashtags “Be Loud for Joshua” and “We Love You Joshua” trended on social media. 

Some couldn’t help but applaud the strength it took for Joshua to be emotionally vulnerable to his fans after a distressing moment. 

 

Many also aired out their frustration to those who started the rumors, telling them that they’re not deserving to be called fans of SEVENTEEN. 

Overall, the majority declared their continued support for Joshua, promising that they’ll be by his side through thick and thin. 

In spite of the controversies, Joshua continued his activities with SEVENTEEN. Recently, he, together with members DK and DINO, were featured in the remix of New Kids On The Block’s “Dirty Dancing.” 

Featured image: Joshua during SEVENTEEN’s ‘Be The Sun’ in Seoul concert. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s D.O Fined for Indoor Smoking

Singer D.O., a member of K-pop boy group EXO, has been reportedly fined for indoor smoking after netizens reported him to authorities. 

On Wednesday, September 6, Mapo Public Health Center released a statement about the idol’s violation. Such a statement came after clips of D.O. allegedly smoking indoors circulated on social media. 

In August, EXO released a behind-the-scenes video from the group’s promotions for their album EXIST. In one of the clips where the group was preparing backstage for their Music Core appearance, D.O. was allegedly smoking an electric cigarette at their waiting room. 

 

Eagle-eyed fans were quick to raise complaints about D.O‘s indoor smoking with the Mapo Public Health Center. According to the National Health Promotion Act, smoking in a non-smoking area can cost up to 100,000 KRW. 

 

In response to the complaints, the Mapo Public Health Center confirmed that D.O. has been fined for the violation. 

Moreover, Mapo Public Health Center revealed that D.O. and his agency SM Entertainment weren’t able to provide evidence that the idol was using a nicotine-free electronic cigarette. 

Aside from being fined, the Mapo Public Health Center also assured that the singer “has pledged to faithfully comply with the law as a public figure in the future.”

As of writing, D.O and SM Entertainment have yet to release a statement about the issue. 

D.O’s second solo album 

In other news, D.O. is preparing for his second solo album Anticipation (literal translation). Set for a September 18 release, Anticipation will feature seven songs. 

On Friday, September 7, he also dropped the pre-release song I Do.” The accompanying music video served as a sequel to D.O’s previous solo track “That’s Okay.” 

Additionally, Anticipation will mark D.O.’s solo comeback in more than two years. He made his solo debut with the album Empathy in July 2021. 

Featured image: EXO’s D.O. in the concept photos for ‘Hear Me Out.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BB Girls’ Yujeong Is Dating ‘Longing for You’ Star Lee Kyu-Han

The K-pop world is abuzz with the news that BB GIRLSYujeong and actor Lee Kyu-Han officially confirmed their romantic relationship. This revelation comes from Warner Music Korea, Yujeong‘s agency, after media outlet TENAsia initially reported on their relationship.

“It’s true that BB GIRLSYujeong and Lee Kyu-Han are in a relationship,” a representative from Warner Music Korea stated. “It seems they are carefully getting to know each other.” Echoing this sentiment, a representative from the actor’s agency, BLADE Entertainment, said, “Lee Kyu-Han and BB GIRLSYujeong are getting to know one another with positive feelings for each other.”

Js together and Ps together Trip! [Rustically : In Ulsan Part.1] | KBS WORLD TV 230214

Interestingly, this confirmation follows denials from both parties. Rumors about their relationship began circulating in July. They worked together on two variety shows, which became the epicenter of these speculations. At the time, their agencies quashed the rumors.

However, fans and viewers of Rustically: In the Secret Island noticed the chemistry between the two. Their genuine camaraderie and friendship on the show did not go unnoticed. Behind the scenes, it’s believed they discreetly explored their feelings. Only when they felt certain did they decide to go public.

What else are Yujeong and Kyu-Han up to?

On the professional front, Yujeong recently made a comeback with her group BB GIRLS, previously known as Brave Girls under Brave Entertainment. Their latest album, One More Time, released on August 3, has been making waves in the K-pop scene. The album features the title track “One More Time” and “Lemonade,” with the former being a vibrant song that samples Rick James’ “Give It To Me Baby.”

 

브브걸 (BBGIRLS) ‘ONE MORE TIME’ OFFICIAL MV

Meanwhile, Lee Kyu-Han is no stranger to the spotlight. The seasoned actor has a very impressive portfolio, having starred in My Lovely Sam Soon, Listen to My Heart, and Graceful Family. He was last seen in the drama Battle for Happiness, which concluded in July. Currently, fans can catch him in the crime thriller Longing for You, where he shares the screen with Na In-Woo and Kim Ji-Eun.

We wish them the best in love and life as they embark on this new chapter. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Yujeong and Kyuhan look good together in a still taken from one of the shows they did. Source: YouTube/@kbsworldtv.

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Seventeen Starts Filming for Na PD’s ‘Youth Over Flowers’

CARATs, the news that we’re waiting for is here! Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, has finally started filming for Youth Over Flowers featuring K-pop group SEVENTEEN. 

On Friday, September 7, the members were spotted at the airport wearing mics and carrying cameras following the conclusion of the group’s two-day FOLLOW concert in Japan. They were also seen with Na PD and several of his staff members, prompting speculations that it’s for the Youth Over Flowers filming. 

 

As the clips circulate on social media, a tvN representative confirmed that the filming is indeed for Youth Over Flowers. 

“We ask for your understanding as we cannot provide specific details in order to ensure a safe and smooth filming process. We will provide more information as it becomes available,” they said. 

Additionally, producers of the show ask for the fans’ support. “If you encounter the SEVENTEEN members around the filming location, please pretend to not have seen them so they can enjoy the trip and film comfortably,” they said. 

SEVENTEEN x Youth Over Flowers

For those unfamiliar, Youth Over Flowers is a travel variety show wherein the staff tricked the cast members into spontaneous trips. 

It first premiered in 2014, with the last edition featuring K-pop group WINNER aired in 2017. This upcoming edition with SEVENTEEN will serve as the show’s return in more than five years. 

Interestingly, SEVENTEEN was the one who suggested having their own Youth Over Flowers series. During the group’s appearance in Na PD’s Youtube series The Game Caterers 2, the group listed down some of their wishes that they’d like the production staff to grant. 

Members Dino and Wonwoo wrote that they want the group to have their version of Youth Over Flowers. They said that the group hadn’t traveled for a vacation recently and that they were huge fans of the show. 

Out of the 60 empty wish coupons, DK was able to pick the coupon for said series. 

Given that the premise of the show is for members to go on an impromptu trip, PLEDIS Entertainment, the group’s agency, shared that they’re not aware of the schedule. 

 

Based on the clips on social media, the members also looked visibly surprised when they were strolling through the airport. 

 

According to some reports of fans, member Mingyu lost his passport at the airport. Some fans also claimed that Na PD even asked them to airdrop footage of the incident as it might be included in an episode of the show. 

 

The filming will reportedly take place in Rome, Italy. 

S.coups’ absence

While fans are already looking forward to how SEVENTEENs Youth Over Flowers will turn out, the fun was dimmed by the confirmation that not all members would be able to participate. 

 

S.coups, the group’s leader, had to miss the filming as he’s currently on hiatus. In early August, S.coups had an accident while filming. Although his surgery for his ACL injury was successful, his recovery is supposed to take a while.

However, S.coups flew to Japan to show support for the group’s concert in Tokyo Dome. During the second day, he even appeared onstage during encore to show support for his members. 

On social media, fans were sad to not have all 13 members participate. But they also know that S.coups had to focus on recovery. 

Meanwhile, it will also be Seungkwan’s first major variety film with SEVENTEEN following his return from hiatus.

As of writing, there’s no details yet about the airing of Youth Over Flowers. Stay tuned here for more updates.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN during the filming of ‘In The Soop’ 2. Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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Watch: HYBE Unveils the 1st Mission for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ Participants

The competition has begun! The Debut: Dream Academy, the survival show between HYBE Labels and Universal Music Group subsidiary Geffen Records, finally kicks off with its first mission.

The 20 participants were split into four groups: two vocal teams and two dance teams that have five members each. For their first mission, the participants were supposed to showcase their singing and dancing skills. 

On Thursday, September 7, the team’s video performances for their “MISSION 1: SHOWCASE” were released on HYBE Labels’ official Youtube channel. 

 

‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ mission 1

First, the Vocal Team A featured contestants Karlee, Lexie, Iliya, Brooklyn, and Manon. The five delivered a mashup performance of Billie Eilish’s Happier than Ever, and Robyn’s “Dancing on My Own.” On social media, the five members were praised for filling the song with emotions using their unique tones.

 

On the other hand, Vocal Team B composed of Sophia, Samara, Nayoung, Lala, and Celeste, showed their soulful harmony with a special arrangement of Paramore’s “Still Into You”

 

Then, Adela, Daniela, Hinari, Megan, and Ua made up the Dance Team A. They flaunted their intense moves and swag with their cover of “Pink Venom” by the world renowned girl group BLACKPINK.

 

Meanwhile, Dance Team B is composed of Emily, Ezrella, Maki, Mei, and Yoonchae. They also exhibited their stage presence with their performance of “OMG” by the monster rookies NewJeans

 

Aside from the team performance videos, individual focus cam videos for all the contestants were also released.

Who’ll move forward?

Fans can cast their votes by visiting the “The Debut: Dream Academy” community in the  fandom platform Weverse. Additionally, viewers can also like the contestants’ individual focus cam videos on HYBE LABELS+ Youtube channel.

After the first mission, only 18 contestants will be continuing their journey in the show as two participants will be eliminated. The top six ranked contestants, meanwhile, will be safe to proceed to Mission 2.

The results of Mission 1 will be announced on September 15. Earlier, HYBE LABELS has announced that the girls are set to compete in a total of three missions, which will also serve as elimination rounds, before the final lineup is revealed at the show’s live finale on November 17.

 

With HYBE and Geffen’s joint venture to look for the next global girl group, the 20 contestants were selected from more than 120,000 submissions all around the world.

Moreover, these candidates come from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden, and Slovakia. 

Featured image: A team from ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’ poses for their first mission. Credit: Twitter/The Debut: Dream Academy

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Baskin Robbins Launches Collaboration with RIIZE in South Korea

Ice cream chain Baskin Robbins has announced a “cool” new collaboration with SM Entertainment’s latest sensation, RIIZE. This partnership is a testament to the boy group’s rising prominence in the K-pop industry, especially after their successful deal with the popular clothing site MUSINSA.

RIIZE is SM‘s first new group in three years after the girl group aespa, and their first boy group since NCT. RIIZE has already garnered significant attention as a top-tier rookie group. Their new partnership with Baskin Robbins is a testament to the boys’ rising popularity and a strategic move by the ice cream giant. Its goal is to reach the MZ generation by collaborating with K-pop artists to offer their fans a fresh brand experience.

The highlight of this collaboration is the introduction of the Popping Star RIIZE Ready Pack Mini. This product captures the essence of the boy group’s journey to “grow together (Rise) and realize dreams (Realize).” It combines Blue Soda Sherbet, Blue RIIZE Popping Candy, and creamy Milk Ice Cream. Each Popping Star RIIZE Ready Pack Mini comes with a photocard. As if that wasn’t enough, a Baskin Robbins representative says more products featuring RIIZE will be released.

The Baskin Robbins controversy

However, this collaboration has not been without its share of controversies. Baskin Robbins, under the SPC umbrella, has faced harsh criticism in the past. In 2022, a tragic incident occurred where a 23-year-old worker died during a factory baking shift for Paris Baguette, another brand under SPC. Their decision to resume operations after the tragedy amid ongoing concerns about workers’ rights and welfare led to public outcry and boycotts against SPC and its brands.

Many fans have disapproved of SM Entertainment’s decision to collaborate with a brand associated with such issues. Brand partnerships can elevate an artist’s image. But they can also be detrimental to an artist if the public dislikes the brand.

While this Baskin Robbins and RIIZE collaboration promises exciting products and experiences for fans, it also serves as a reminder that brand deals in the entertainment industry come with certain complexities and responsibilities. Only time will tell how this controversial partnership with Baskin Robbins will impact RIIZE in the long run. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Doesn’t this collab look awesome? Source: Instagram/@baskinrobbinskorea.

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Look: Twice’s Sana Stuns as Prada’s New Ambassador

Rejoice, ONCEs! JYP Entertainment revealed on Thursday, September 7, that TWICE member Sana has been named as Prada’s new brand ambassador. 

In the photo, the idol is seen flaunting her visuals as she attended the Prada Mode Seoul event.

Aside from Sana, the luxury brand also posted a series of photos including their other Korean ambassadors. Among those in attendance were NCT’s Jaehyun, Nevertheless actor Song Kang, and Alchemy of Souls actor Lee Jae Wook. Also present were actor-director Koo Kyowhan and model Irene Kim

Prior to this, the “Set Me Free” singer notably grabbed attention in the 2022 Milan Fashion Week, where she attended Prada’s Spring/Summer 2023 event. Although Sana has modeled for the brand in the previous years, this is the first time she has been officially named as an ambassador.

Interestingly, Sana is the latest K-pop idol to be tapped by a luxury fashion brand to be their global ambassador. The growing list includes BTS’ V for Cartier, SEVENTEEN’s Vernon for Kenzo, and TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors. Meanwhile, (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon and STRAY KIDSHyunjin and Felix are also ambassadors for Jimmy Choo, Versace, and Louis Vuitton, respectively.

Activities of Sana in 2023

Being a brand ambassador for Prada is the latest among Sana’s partnerships with brands. In 2023, she was also tapped by GRAFF Diamonds, eSpoir, and MISSHA. 

 

Moreover, Sana also debuted as part of TWICE’s first sub-unit MISAMO, alongside Mina and Momo. In July, the Japanese trio released their first mini album Masterpiece. It consists of seven songs including the title track “Do Not Touch”.

Meanwhile, TWICE continues to take the world by storm as the nine-member girl group became the first K-Pop girl group to sell out a stadium show in Sao Paulo, Brazil. To cater to the demand, an additional show has been added. Currently, the girls are busy visiting their global fans with their 5th World Tour Ready to Be.

 

Earlier this year, TWICE also became the first Korean group to win the Breakthrough Award at the Billboard Women in Music Awards 2023.

Featured image: TWICE’s Sana attends the Prada Mode Seoul event. Credit: Twitter/Sana

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Look: Kim Min Jae to Enlist in Military on September 18

South  Korean actor and rapper Kim Min Jae has announced that he is enlisting in the military soon by penning a heartfelt letter to his fans. 

Nyam Nyam Entertainment, Kim’s agency, also confirmed that the actor will begin to fulfill his mandatory service on September 18. The label didn’t provide the exact details on where the actor will enlist, but instead asked for fans’ unwavering love and support until the actor’s return. 

On his official fan cafe, the Dr. Romantic star also shared his sentiments about his upcoming service. “I am heading into the army band, and the thought of not seeing you all for a while fills me with sadness and regret. However, I am also excited and grateful for the new experiences and growth that my military life will surely bring, he added.

 

Then the actor gratefully concluded his message with a promise to his fans. “Thank you for the caring thoughts and concerns, I won’t forget it. I’ll return as a stronger and more enriched individual, and I’ll make sure to repay your love as actor Kim Min Jae,” he declared.

The announcement served as a confirmation of fans’ speculations that his enlistment date was fast approaching. Earlier in 2023, Kim announced that Dr. Romantic 3 would be his last project for the time being. Additionally, Han Suk Kyu, the actor’s co-star in the drama, also accidentally revealed Kim‘s military plans in a press conference last April. 

 

Kim Min Jae’s career

In 2014, Kim made his acting debut in the joint South Korean-Vietnamese drama Forever Young. In 2016, the 26-year-old’s acting career began to bloom with his special appearance as a young king in the hit drama series Goblin.

Since then, he established himself as an exceptional actor and is now well-loved for his roles in Dr. Romantic, Do You Like Brahms?, Tempted, Poong: the Joseon Psychiatrist, Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency, among others. 

Apart from his successful career as an actor, Kim Min Jae is also a talented rapper who goes by his stage name Real.be. He trained as an idol for four years before becoming an actor.

With the news of his enlistment, he is set to be discharged and return to the entertainment industry in March 2025. 

Featured image: Kim Min Jae shares photo from his recent fan meeting. Credit: Instagram/Kim Min Jae

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BTS’ SUGA and Taylor Swift Have Something in Common

BTSSUGA, also known by his second stage name, Agust D, has carved his name into the annals of music history. 

He has become one of only two artists with at least three number-one albums on iTunes in over 100 countries. This monumental achievement places him alongside American pop star Taylor Swift, who has four albums—Speak Now, 1989, Lover, and Reputation—that achieved this distinction. Trailing behind BTSSUGA and Taylor are Adele and Beyoncé, who each have two. 

SUGA is the first artist in history to have all of his albums reach the top spot on iTunes in over 100 countries. He also saw three of his singles—Daechwita,” “Haegeum,” and “People Pt.2”—reach No. 1 on iTunes in over 100 countries.

SUGA’s journey to this achievement began with his first mixtape, Agust D, released in 2016. It was a raw, unfiltered reflection of his thoughts, tracing his path from obscurity to stardom. He put out another mixtape titled D-2 in 2020. Bannered by the hit single “Daechwita,” this mixtape captured the essence of his experiences as a 28-year-old. SUGA completed the trilogy when he released his first studio album D-DAY earlier this year.

BTS’ SUGA accomplished many things

But his accomplishments aren’t limited to the charts. He recently concluded a world tour that took him to countries like Indonesia, Japan, Singapore, and Thailand. SUGA has also penetrated fashion and sports. In January 2023, he was unveiled as the brand ambassador for the luxury fashion house Valentino. By April, he was representing the NBA as an ambassador.

Fans also got an intimate look into his life with the documentary SUGA: Road to D-DAY, available on Disney+. This documentary chronicled the process of putting together his first studio album. But amid all SUGA’s success, a sad note was struck when BIGHIT MUSIC announced that he would soon enlist in the South Korean military.

While the announcement was made shortly after his tour ended last month, there has been no word from BIGHIT MUSIC or SUGA himself regarding his enlistment date. In fact, things have been so quiet that some fans believe BTSSUGA enlisted quietly, without all the fanfare that accompanied Jin’s and j-hope’s enlistments. 

If they’re right, all SUGA’s fans can do now is pray for his safe return. They can also take comfort in the fact that he left them with this achievement before he enlisted. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SUGA made iTunes history this year. Congratulations, Yoongi! Source: Weverse.

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DKZ’s Jaechan Officially Begins Solo Career With Media Showcase

On September 6, DKZ‘s Jaechan officially began his solo journey with a media showcase at Seoul’s YES24 Live Hall. This event, which attracted attention from the local press, celebrated the release of his first solo mini album, JCFACTORY.

Factory owner Jaechan

The media showcase was a blend of performances, interactions, and revelations. Jaechan posed for photographs, performed songs from his album, and participated in a Q&A session with reporters and the event’s MC, Yoo Jae Pil.

Jaechan’s title track, “Hello,” is a synth-pop number that blends a vibrant plucking sound with 808 bass, giving birth to a minimalist R&B/urban pop vibe. Its MV is a visual treat, contrasting “celebrity Jaechan” and “ordinary Jaechan.” It’s all about the duality of his daily life, with scenes of him as an award-winning actor, news anchor, and even a luxury car commercial star.

[재찬 JAECHAN] ‘Hello’ MV

“Honestly, I’d never written or composed performance-oriented music before ‘Hello.’ I felt that the album’s title song should be a performance element. Originally, I was going to use a song created by another composer, but I ended up making the song myself,” he said. 

His dedication to his craft is outstanding. He has writing credits on every song on JCFACTORY, so his fans affectionately nicknamed him “factory owner Jaechan.” They say Jaechan churns out songs as fast as a factory churns out products.

Jaechan: ‘My music is me’

The other songs on the album are bops. “Oh Girl” is a poignant song where Jaechan says he “wants to give them everything.” “MAYB” offers a refreshing twist on love songs, featuring the talents of Chinese singer-songwriter Nathania. “Replay” captures the essence of post-breakup emotions quite well, and “Time” was introduced to fans as the album’s pre-release single.

Jaechan revealed, “These solo tracks were something that had been planned for a long time. In the case of ‘Oh Girl’ specifically, the demo first came around two years ago.” He confessed to feeling a little worried about his solo debut. Luckily, he found solace in the support of his DKZ members, who always checked on his schedule and cheered him on. 

[재찬 JAECHAN] 1st Mini Album ‘JCFACTORY’ SHOWCASE

Addressing the recent trend of male idols pursuing solo careers, Jaechan responded with grace and humility. He said, “Rather than thinking about what makes me different when I make music, I think about what kind of music I’m capable of, what kind of music really demonstrates my personal color. My music is ‘me.’”

The media also asked him about the recent exit of Jaechan‘s groupmate, Kyoungyoon. Addressing the issue, Jaechan said, “Something bad happened to our group, and to say it hasn’t been difficult would be lying.” However, he assured fans of DKZ‘s commitment to staying together. “The members have been talking a lot about group activities, particularly what direction we’d like to go in.”

@dkz_dy

😽👋 #재찬 #JAECHAN #JCFACTORY #Hello #HelloChallenge #NewMusic

♬ Hello – JAECHAN

The advantage of solo activities

Concluding the event, Jaechan expressed his gratitude and aspirations by saying, “The advantage of solo activities is that I’m fully able to enter my own thoughts when preparing music. Through this round of promotions, I’ll show you my personality and the direction of my thoughts.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Good luck with your solo career, Jaechan! Source: Twitter/@dkz_dy.

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