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Red Velvet’s Yeri Confirms Plans for Group to Drop New Album Later This Year

Yeri of Red Velvet brought joy to fans worldwide by confirming the group‘s plans to release their third full-length studio album later this year. During a live broadcast on August 1 to celebrate the group’s anniversary, their maknae excitedly made the announcement, ending years of anticipation.

Since debuting nine years ago, Red Velvet has become one of SM Entertainment’s most successful acts, breaking numerous records with their unique sound and vibrant visuals. However, despite their consistent success, the group’s discography has only housed two full studio albums since 2014. This fact has not sat well with the group’s passionate fan base.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rhHHqzuX8vs

[✓2 August 2023] RED VELVET 9TH ANNIVERSARY SPECIAL LIVE

The fans have been vocal about their desire for a third full-length album from the group. Recently, the demand took a visible form when fans sent protest trucks with messages to SM Entertainment, urging the company to prioritize the release of Red Velvet‘s third full-length album. Now, it seems their wish is about to be fulfilled.

During the eventful broadcast filled with fun games and interactions, the members prepared to end their time together. As they expressed gratitude to Reveluvs for their unwavering support, Yeri decided to leave the fans with some good news. “Do I say it?” she asked, then forged ahead anyway. “We’re preparing our third full-length album. After this live, we’re going to have a meeting for the comeback. We have a goal to release it in the second half of the year.”

Red Velvet is already hard at work

The announcement was met with excitement and anticipation from the Red Velvet fandom, who have been patiently waiting for this moment. Keywords related to the announcement started trending in South Korea and worldwide, just minutes after Yeri’s teaser.

As the second half of the year begins, Reveluvs can look forward to new music from their favorite quintet. This development comes after a long wait, and Yeri’s announcement is sure to send ripples of joy through the fandom. The group’s main dancer, Seulgi, acknowledged that Reveluvs had indeed been waiting for a long time, echoing the sentiments expressed by fans worldwide.

Red Velvet’s long-anticipated third album is no longer a distant dream but a thrilling reality in the making. Fans can now eagerly await the release, knowing that their favorite group is hard at work to bring them new material. The excitement is palpable, and the countdown to the album’s release has officially begun. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans have been waiting for this LP for a long time. Source: Twitter/@revevante.

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“Queendom Puzzle” Reveals New Top 7 Ahead of Semi-Finals Showdown

Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle has shaken up the competition by revealing its current standings based on the ongoing global vote. This spin-off of the hit survival show Queendom features idols, including members of currently active girl groups, battling for spots in a seven-member project girl group.

[EN/JP] [#퀸덤퍼즐] EXCLUSIVE PREVIEW | 6/13(화) 밤 10시 첫 방송

A significant change

Last week, a significant change took place. The contestants’ voting scores were reset immediately after the show’s first live elimination ceremony. Consequently, all the votes and benefits everyone received before that episode will not count towards next week’s semi-final results and eliminations.

With one week of voting left before the August 8 semi-finals, during which seven idols will be sent packing, Queendom Puzzle revealed the interim status of its 21 remaining contestants on August 1. This announcement was based on votes from the past week, and it certainly stirred up excitement among fans.

The current Top 7, in no particular order, are CLC’s Yeeun, H1-KEY’s Hwiseo, Lovelyz’s Kei, PURPLE KISS’s Yuki, Rocket Punch’s Yeonhee, Woo!ah!’s Nana, and WJSN’s Yeoreum. These ladies showed a lot of charisma, heart, and talent, earning them the top spots in the competition so far.

EL7Z U+P(엘즈업) 데뷔를 향한 TOP7 후보 및 탈락 후보 공개!

Meanwhile, the mid-ranking contestants, who are in the 8th to 14th places, are Dohwa (aka AOA’s Chanmi), Rocket Punch’s Suyun and Takahashi Juri, tripleS’s Jiwoo, Weeekly’s Jihan, Weki Meki’s Elly, and Woo!ah!’s Wooyeon. These contestants are still in the running and have a chance to climb the ranks with strong performances in the upcoming rounds.

Lastly, the 7 lowest-ranking contestants, who are at risk for elimination, are Cherry Bullet’s Bora and Jiwon, Fye, H1-KEY’s Riina, NMB48 alum and soloist Shiroma Miru, Weeekly’s Lee Soojin, and Weeekly’s Zoa. The pressure is on for them, as they need to prove themselves in the next round to avoid elimination.

“Queendom Puzzle” is heating up

As the show heads into the semi-finals, fans are eagerly rooting for their favorite contestants. The anticipation is building, and the competition is heating up. In the meantime, viewers can catch up on all the previous episodes of Queendom Puzzle with subtitles on Viki. 

The semi-finals showdown is set to be an intense battle, and the latest rankings have only added to the excitement. Who will make it to the top? The answer will be revealed on August 8. Stay tuned!

[#Queendom Puzzle/8회 예고] ‘다 털어버리자🔥’ 편집실을 습격한 퀸들의 대소동!

The rankings brought joy to some fans and disappointment to others, but they undoubtedly added a new and welcome layer of intrigue to the competition. With the semi-finals just around the corner, the contestants are gearing up for their most important performances yet. 

The stakes are high, and every vote counts. The road to EL7Z U+P (the name of the project group the show will form) is paved with twists and turns, and Queendom Puzzle continues to keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The battle for the top 7 is on, and the world is watching. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: If your bias isn’t in the Top 7, don’t worry. You still have time to help her by voting on the Mnet Plus app. Source: YouTube/@Mnet.

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NCT Bares Lineup for Four New Releases, Debuts New NCT LAB Instagram Account

NCT fans, brace yourselves for an exciting musical journey! On August 2, NCT officially revealed their plans for new releases from the NCT LAB project. This announcement has stirred excitement among fans and marked a significant milestone in NCT‘s musical evolution.

NCT LAB is a part of STATION, a digital music channel project by SM Entertainment. Its specific focus is on allowing NCT to release solo and unit projects, as well as collaborate with other artists. It’s a big part of the group’s musical evolution, offering diverse, fresh content that resonates with fans and showcases NCT’s versatility. Previous NCT LAB releases include “Child,” Mark’s first solo single; Jaehyun’s “Forever Only”; Kun, Taeil, and YangYang’s “Rain Day”; and Ten’s “Birthday.”

[STATION : NCT LAB] TEN 텐 ‘Birthday’ MV

On April 7, 2023, Mark released his second solo single “Golden Hour” under NCT LAB. Its release was teased by fellow NCT member Jaemin, who shared spoiler images from the music video filming set. With “Golden Hour,” NCT resumed this project in 2023.

Upcoming releases and more from NCT LAB

Now, back to the present. A lineup poster from SM Entertainment reveals four new NCT LAB songs that will drop before 2023 ends. They include Jaehyun‘s solo single “Horizon,” set to be released on August 8, followed by a duet featuring Haechan and Taeil. Next in line is a solo track by Kun and a unit track by Chenle, Kun, Renjun, and Xiaojun. These tracks are part of NCT LAB‘s reorganization. It’ll be transformed into NCT’s own music archives channel. Plans to release a compilation album and music videos are also on the table.

Aside from the new music, NCT LAB also launched a new official Instagram account. This account will serve as a hub for fans to stay updated with regular news and exclusive content, enhancing the connection between the artists and their followers. Furthermore, NCT is currently preparing for their first offline concert as a full group, NCT NATION: To The World, scheduled for August 26 in Seoul. This concert is a significant event for the group, and anticipation is building.

NCT‘s upcoming releases, the reorganization of NCT LAB, and the launch of its official Instagram account is an exciting development for NCTzens everywhere. With new material on the horizon, a closer connection to the fans through social media, and a glimpse into their journey, NCT continues to engage and delight. The future looks bright for NCT and their fans, and these new releases are sure to be a hit. – K-Pop Life

Featured Image: NCT LAB will take the group’s music to a new level. Source: Twitter/@NCTsmtown.

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Meet Hi-Fi Un!corn’s Hyunyul, the Rookie Idol Who Charmed Netizens with His Visuals

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, where new talents emerge every day, Hi-Fi Un!corn‘s Hyunyul has made a mark that’s hard to ignore. This guitarist has not only caught the attention of netizens but has also been proclaimed one of the most handsome rookies of the year. But who is he and what makes him so special? Let’s find out.

Hi-Fi Un!corn, a South Korean-Japanese male band, recently made its debut with the single “Over the Rainbow.” The band has five members—Hyunyul, Kiyoon, Min, Shuto, and Taemin—who won SBS’ band audition show The Idol Band: Boy’s Battle. Among them, Hyunyul became a hot topic online, with fans and netizens alike praising his talent and visuals.

Hyunyul‘s visuals have been the talk of the town. Photos and videos of him playing guitar have been circulating online, leading many to gush about him. Some even said, “His face makes me want to know his name!” Others compared him to stars like Ahn Hyo Seop. His lips, eyes, and overall appearance made him a viral sensation. But beyond his stunning looks, Hyunyul‘s talent is equally captivating.

230703 Over the Rainbow – Hi-Fi Un!corn HYUNYUL focus (하이파이유니콘 김현율)

More than just a pretty face

The band’s debut single was produced by CN Blue‘s leader and vocalist Jung Yong-hwa. Inspired by a rainbow he saw in Hawaii, the song conveys a message of hope and good days to come. The single was released in both Japanese and Korean, reflecting the band’s ambition to comfort listeners with their music in diverse languages. The poetic lyrics and bright energy of the song resonated with the band members, especially Hyunyul.

Hyunyul once explained the meaning behind Hi-Fi Un!corn‘s name, saying they hope to become “this generation’s unicorn that makes high-quality music.” His contributions extend beyond performing; he’s also involved in composing music and writing lyrics. His desire to make music that can comfort listeners is a testament to his depth as an artist. He’s not just a pretty face; he’s a musician with a vision.

Hyunyul is a star in the making

It only took Hi-Fi Un!corn a few weeks after their debut to amass a big following. Their association with FNC Entertainment, known for creating major bands like CN Blue and FT Island, adds to their credibility. The band plans to promote their debut single in both Japan and Korea through various platforms, including busking and starring in local radio and TV programs. Hyunyul‘s role as a vocalist and instrumentalist adds a unique flavor to the band’s performances.

Hi-Fi Un!corn HYUNYUL FanCam @ SBS Inkigayo 230702

FNC Entertainment’s reputation for nurturing talents and focusing on visuals is well-known. Over the years, the company has gained attention for the beauty of its idols. In particular, the members of the FNC boy group SF9 have always been known for their visuals. Their height has always earned them praise. Hi-Fi Un!corn‘s association with this agency adds a layer of expectation and prestige, and Hyunyul fits right into this legacy.

As a member of Hi-Fi Un!corn, Hyunyul has already made a splash in the industry, and his potential is limitless. Whether it’s his musical prowess or his stunning visuals, Hyunyul is a star in the making, and the world can’t wait to see what he does next. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: He cut a fine figure in the concept photos for Hi-Fi Un!corn’s debut single. Source: Instagram/@hfu_official.

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SF9’s Hwiyoung Confirms Solo Debut

The long wait is almost over as SF9 member Hwiyoung is confirmed to make his solo debut. 

FNC Entertainment confirmed to Korean media on Tuesday, August 1, that the rapper will release a solo digital single in August. 

Details, such as the song title and release date, about Hwiyoung’s solo single have yet to be disclosed. 

FANTASYs, fans of SF9, quickly took to social media to express their excitement for Hwiyoung as this is his first official solo release since the group made its debut eight years ago.

Prior to his upcoming solo digital single, Hwiyoung is already known for his wide musical spectrum. He has already released several solo tracks on his Soundcloud account. 

Additionally, Hwiyoung has also appeared in the drama Imitation. 

Meanwhile, his upcoming single will reportedly show a different charm from his activities as SF9. 

 

SF9 is a nine-member group that made their debut in October 2016 with the digital single Feeling Sensation.” The group’s other hits include “Now or Never,” “Good Guy,” “Puzzle,” “Scream,” “Tear Drop” and Trauma.” 

Some of its members like Rowoon, Inseong, Hwiyoung, Chani, and Dawon have also ventured into acting. 

Featured image: SF9’s Hwiyoung updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Twitter/SF9

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FIFTY FIFTY’s Lawsuit May End with a Settlement Between Members and ATTRAKT CEO

The legal dispute between the girl group FIFTY FIFTY and their agency ATTRAKT has been a hot topic for a while. However, according to a report by the 50th Civil Affairs Department of the Seoul Central District Court, mediation may soon resolve it.

https://twitter.com/fiftyfiftylog/status/1686277249299886080

The recent decision by the court to send the legal dispute to mediation marks a significant turning point in the ongoing battle. Mediation, a form of alternative dispute resolution (ADR), offers a more private and potentially amicable way to end conflicts. It allows everyone involved to negotiate, giving them an opportunity to reach an agreement without the need for a public trial.

In the case of FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT, the court’s decision to turn to mediation reflects an understanding that a civil settlement may be in the parties’ best interests. This process will enable the rookie group and the entertainment label to discuss their grievances openly and work towards a mutual agreement. However, the path to resolution does not have a guarantee. If the parties fail to reach an agreement, the court may propose a compromise. Should both parties reject this offer, the lawsuit will proceed through the traditional court system.

The allegations and conflict

FIFTY FIFTY, who became popular because of the hit song “Cupid,” accused ATTRAKT of betraying their trust and breaching their contract. Among other things, the agency reportedly pushed the girl group to continue promoting despite health issues. A legal representative for FIFTY FIFTY stated, “This application for an injunction is due to ATTRAKT’s violation of the contract and destruction of trust.”

ATTRAKT’s CEO Jung Heung Joon countered the allegations. He accused outside forces, including major label Warner Music Korea, of attempting to “poach” the group. The agency also sued “Cupid” producer Ahn Sung Il, claiming they bought the copyrights to the song from a foreign composer.

Cupid (Twin Ver.) – LIVE IN STUDIO | FIFTY FIFTY (피프티피프티)

The situation escalated when Dispatch revealed details behind FIFTY FIFTY‘s funding, formation, and copyrights. More than 95% of the song’s royalties were reported to go to Ahn Sung Il and The Givers. The Korean public supported ATTRAKT’s CEO, referring to FIFTY FIFTY as “Backstabbing Idols.”

The first trial took place on July 5. FIFTY FIFTY‘s lawyer accused ATTRAKT of incompetence and demanded proof of spending on the group. The argument fell apart after Interpark revealed that the money given to ATTRAKT had nothing to do with FIFTY FIFTY.

Impact of mediation on the industry

In another shocking revelation, Dispatch wrote that producer Ahn Sung Il forged the signatures of the “Cupid” songwriters to transfer its copyright to himself. As a result, FIFTY FIFTY‘s royalties from the song were withheld due to a decision made by the Korean Music Copyright Association.

The court’s decision to arbitrate an agreement between the two parties rather than giving a ruling elicited mixed reactions. Some fans have expressed support for FIFTY FIFTY‘s fight for freedom, while others called for new members to be picked for the group.

The legal battle also raised questions about the transparency and ethics within the K-pop industry. It exposed the complex relationships between labels, producers, and artists, shedding light on the challenges faced by young idols.

The fate of FIFTY FIFTY‘s career remains uncertain, but the impact of this legal battle will surely resonate throughout the K-pop industry. Whether the mediation leads to a settlement or the case goes to court, the outcome may affect how the K-pop industry handles contracts and relationships moving forward. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: At this point, netizens really want this case to be resolved as quickly as possible. Source: Twitter/@fiftyfiftyfeed.

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Watch: Disney+ Releases Teaser for Nct 127’s ‘The Lost Boys’

NCT127 is off to Neverland! Disney+ released on Tuesday, August 1, the first teaser for the K-pop group’s upcoming docu-series titled The Lost Boys. 

The 37-second clip featured clips from NCT 127’s Neo City The Link concert tour in various cities such as New York, Los Angeles, and Bangkok. 

It also included snippets of members Taeil, Johnny, Taeyeong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Mark, and Haechan doing individual activities. 

NCT 127 like you’ve never seen them before,” the text in the teaser read. Disney+ also wrote: ”Come and join the lost boys in Neverland.  

 

NCT 127: The Lost Boys will see the members open up about their childhood dreams, pre-debut lives, and idol journey. 

The four-part documentary-series is directed by Jayil Park and created by Cho Youngchul and Yim Pilsung. 

Each episode will reportedly feature two to three different members of the group, with two episodes airing from August 30 to September 6. 

Aside from NCT 127, Disney+ has also launched documentary shows of other K-pop idols. The list includes BTS members Suga and j-hope, and groups Super Junior and Tomorrow X Together.

Launched in 2016, NCT 127 is best known for their songs Cherry Bomb,” “Kick It,” “Sticker,” “2 Baddies among others.

It is one of the sub-units of the SM Entertainment act NCT. Currently, NCT is set to establish their last sub-unit through the reality survival series NCT Universe: LASTART.

Featured image: NCT 127 will be releasing a documentary special on Disney+. Credit: Twitter/NCT 127

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(G)I-Dle’s Miyeon Is Jimmy Choo’s New Global Ambassador

Miyeon of K-pop girl group (G)I-DLE has been tapped to become the newest global ambassador of fashion luxury brand Jimmy Choo. 

On Tuesday, August 1, the brand shard a photo of Miyeon in a white sweater and black skirt. She is also holding a sequined silver handbag. 

 Jimmy Choo’s creative director Sandra Choi shared that the brand is “thrilled” to have the idol. They also described Miyeon as “magnetic” in a press release. 

“From her musical talent to her captivating performances and inimitable personal style, she truly embodies the confident, playful spirit and creative energy of Jimmy Choo,” they added. 

For her part, Miyeon remarked that it’s a “pleasure and honor” to be Jimmy Choo’s new global ambassador. She added that she has fallen in love “with the joy and splendor” of the brand. 

“I feel more confident when I wear them. I want to present the beautiful campaign that we worked on together as soon as possible,” she said. 

As part of her brand ambassadorship, Miyeon will be featured in various activities for the brand, including the Jimmy Choo 2023 Fall Campaign that will be launched on August 30. 

The (G)I-DLE member is the second Korean ambassador for Jimmy Choo, following the footsteps of idol-actress Son Na Eun. Son became the brand’s first ambassador for South Korea in May 2022. 

Recently, numerous K-pop idols have been tapped as global ambassadors for fashion brands. The list includes BTS’ V for Cartier, SEVENTEEN’s Vernon for Kenzo, TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors, and STRAY KIDSHyunjin for Versace. 

Meanwhile, (G)I-DLE recently collaborated with 88rising for their first English-single “I Do.”

Featured image: Jimmy Choo shares photo of their new global ambassador, (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon. Credit: Twitter/Jimmy Choo

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Ed Sheeran and Jungkook Rumored to be Doing a Song Together After Viral Interaction

In a recent and unexpected interaction, Ed Sheeran and BTS‘s Jungkook left netizens excited and speculating about a potential collaboration. The two global stars engaged in a playful conversation on the Audacy podcast, where Jungkook was promoting his new solo singleSEVEN.”

Jungkook, known for his charm and sense of humor, posed a question to Ed Sheeran, asking him to choose between playing the guitar and eating his favorite food for an entire month. Sheeran, with a bright smile, quickly chose to let go of his favorite food, explaining that he has many favorites and could easily do without one. He humorously added, “I’m not going to eat curry for the month and I’d eat other things.”

Audacy Check In: Jung Kook

This interaction was heartwarming and intriguing. Ed Sheeran has previously collaborated with BTS on hits like “Make it Right” from their 2019 EP Map of the Soul: Persona and their 2021 English single “Permission to Dance.” However, they have yet to meet face-to-face. They communicate only via interviews and music exchanges.

In addition to that playful interaction, Jungkook also spoke about his single and the possibility of releasing a full-length solo album. His confidence and excitement were palpable, leaving fans eagerly awaiting what might be on the way. He hinted, “I think a great album might be on the way.”

The bond between Ed Sheeran and Jungkook

BTS’ fans, also known as ARMY, were delighted by this unexpected interaction. 

The playful banter between the two artists led to hopes for a new collaboration, possibly even in person. Clips from the interview flooded social media, and ARMY expressed excitement about what might happen next.

Furthermore, their interaction showcased the genuine friendship and mutual respect between Ed Sheeran and Jungkook. Despite not having met in person, their camaraderie was evident. Sheeran‘s response to the South Korean superstar’s playful question was met with laughter and appreciation from fans. The BTS fandom affectionately refers to Ed Sheeran as “ARMY’s boy,” reflecting the close connection between the artists and the fans.

Whether or not a collaboration is in the works remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the bond between Ed Sheeran and Jungkook is strong, and their fans are here for it. The world is ready for whatever musical magic these two talents may make. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ARMY and Ed’s fans are here for the bond between the two superstars. Source: Twitter/@Audacy.

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Monsta X’s Kihyun to Enlist in Military on August 22

Kihyun of K-pop boy group MONSTA X has announced that he will be starting his mandatory military service on August 22. 

The idol personally shared the news on Tuesday, August 1 through a handwritten letter posted on MONSTA X’s official fan cafe.

“Even though MONBEBE will worry first despite anticipating [the news] because I already mentioned it numerous times, I feel rather relieved because I feel like I’m doing homework that I’ve pushed off,” he said, as translated by Soompi

The main vocalist added that he’s grateful for the support, and that he will continue working hard before he has to leave.

Additionally, Kihyun also pointed out how aside from him, the rest of the MONSTA X members will also be away doing their military services. And in turn, he reminded their fans to stay strong and be healthy until they come back.

Kihyun will be the fourth member of MONSTA X to enlist in the military following members Shownu, Minhyuk and Joohoney.

Also read: MONSTA X’S Joohoney Starts Military Service

Shownu was discharged from the military in April, while Minhyuk enlisted in the same month. Meanwhile, Joohoney started his service in July.

Currently,  MONSTA X has focused mainly on solo and sub-unit activities as members have started enlisting.  I.M made his solo comeback in June with the mini-album Overdrive, while members Shownu and Hyungwon made their sub-unit debut with The Unseen. 

Composed of Shownu, Minhyuk, Hyungwon, Joohoney, Kihyun, and I.M, MONSTA X made their debut in May 2015. Their last full comeback was in January with the mini-album Reason.

Featured image: Kihyun in concept photo teasers for MONSTA X’s mini-album ‘Reason.’ Credit: Facebook/MONSTA X

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