Author: Kpop News Writer

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“My Sibling’s Romance” Takes Legal Action Against Rumors

The production team of “My Sibling’s Romance” has announced that they will be taking legal action against malicious online rumors and posts about their participants. On July 9, JTBC and Wavve shared a joint statement on their official accounts.

In a statement, they shared:

“Although our program has recently ended,
malicious comments and slander against ordinary actors.
False facts are still being found in large numbers online.

These actions are more than just criticism, they seriously humiliate the honor of the actors.
Furthermore, they seriously affect their daily lives and mental health.

We will strongly respond to any acts that degrade the honor of the participants.
We are currently working with the legal team to thoroughly collect all evidence of these malicious comments and defamation acts.
Please be informed that all legal measures will be taken by the Civil and Criminal Investigation.

Asking for your understanding and cooperation,
Please refrain from unfair criticism and spreading false information towards the actors.

Thank you.”

Malicious posts circulating even after a month of ‘My Sibling’s Romance’ finale

“My Sibling’s Romance” is a unique family-involved dating show where siblings come together in the quest for love. Directed by Lee Jin Joo, known for her work on “EXchange,” the program concluded on June 14. However, even after the show’s end, malicious posts targeting the contestants’ actions and personalities have persisted.

One contestant, Yongwoo, has been heavily criticized on platforms like Reddit. Some users label him as narcissistic and manipulative. These discussions have also delved into how the portrayal of contestants’ family backgrounds may contribute to negative perceptions and increased scrutiny. Viewers have suggested that detailed family histories and personal stories could lead to misjudgments, fueling harsh online commentary.

This situation has sparked broader conversations about the impact of reality TV on participants and their families. Both producers and viewers are called upon to foster a more respectful and supportive environment, avoiding unnecessary harm to those involved in such shows.

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ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin Faces Police Investigations For Embezzlement Allegations

Min Hee Jin, CEO of ADOR, arrived at the Yongsan Police Station to face questioning over embezzlement allegations made by HYBE. When questioned about her focus during the statement, she responded firmly, “I will speak the truth. The embezzlement claim is baseless.”

HYBE lodged the complaint on April 26, accusing Min Hee Jin of attempting to seize control of its subsidiary, ADOR, through embezzlement. The police interrogation marks the first formal step in an investigation spurred by these accusations. The allegations, which surfaced last month, claim that she misappropriated company funds for personal use.

Sources close to the investigation revealed that she was questioned extensively about her financial management practices and specific transactions flagged by HYBE’s internal audit team. Dressed in a simple, professional outfit, she appeared composed as she addressed reporters outside the police station. Her representatives argue that, given the company’s share structure, a takeover is impossible and that she has never committed embezzlement.

Brief history of Min Hee Jin vs. HYBE dispute

The controversy began when Hybe Labels announced on April 22 that it would audit its subsidiary label, ADOR, and its executives. This announcement included requesting ADOR’s CEO, Min Hee Jin, the creative force behind NewJeans, to step down.

Hybe claimed they had evidence that she was attempting to gain complete control of ADOR and had leaked private information to lure investors. Min Hee Jin owns 18% of ADOR, top executives hold 2%, and Hybe Labels controls 80%.

In response, ADOR released an official statement accusing Hybe’s new girl group, Illit, of plagiarizing NewJeans. According to ADOR, they had raised the plagiarism issue internally, but no action was taken, leading to the audit instead. “It’s not me who betrayed Hybe. It’s Hybe that betrayed me,” she stated.

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Lee Kyu Han Joins Fantasy Drama “The Judge From Hell”

Actor Lee Kyu Han is set to star in the highly anticipated SBS drama “The Judge From Hell,” joining renowned actors Park Shin Hye and Kim Jae Young. The drama, which will air in the latter half of this year, promises a captivating mix of fantasy and romance.

Lee Kyu Han will complicate Park Shin Hye and Kim Jae Young’s romance in new fantasy drama

“The Judge From Hell” tells the story of Kang Bit Na, portrayed by Park Shin Hye, a demon from hell who inhabits a judge’s body. She encounters Han Da On, played by Kim Jae Young, a dedicated detective known for his fierce pursuit of justice. Together, they navigate a world where the lines between good and evil blur, exploring themes of redemption and true justice.

Lee Kyu Han will take on the role of Jeong Tae Gyu, the eldest son of a prominent construction CEO. Tae Gyu is a perfectionist with striking looks and a polished personality. His character adds an intriguing layer to the drama as he becomes engaged to Kang Bit Na under his father’s influence.

With a compelling cast and an intriguing storyline, “The Judge From Hell” is expected to be a standout drama in 2024. Fans eagerly await its release, anticipating a thrilling blend of fantasy, romance, and drama.

Lee Kyu Han’s success over the years

Born on August 4, 1980, Lee Kyu Han made his acting debut in 1998 with “Love and Success.” He gained fame through the 2005 romantic comedy “My Lovely Sam Soon” and has since appeared in various popular TV series, including “Smile, You,” “Can You Hear My Heart?” “I Have a Lover,” and “The Rich Son.” His versatility has been showcased in variety shows and intense villain roles, earning him acclaim for performances in “Battle for Happiness” and “Longing for You.”

With the support of his agency, Blade Entertainment, they are set to venture into different projects that will showcase his acting power.

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Whee in Unveils Second Concept Photos for “Cocowater”

MAMAMOO’s exceptional vocalist, Whee In, is gearing up for the release of her latest digital single titled “Cocowater.”

In the newly unveiled second set of concept photos for “Cocowater,” Whee In exudes charm against the serene backdrop of a tranquil seaside. These images not only emphasize Whee In’s artistic flair and innovative spirit but also showcase her distinct charisma, skillfully juxtaposed with the cool and icy scenery of the beach.

The concept photos capture Whee In’s ability to convey emotion and style effortlessly, hinting at the aesthetic and mood of her upcoming music release. Fans eagerly anticipate “Cocowater” as Whee In continues to impress with her musical talent and captivating visual presence.

Wheein, whose birth name is Jung Whee In, is a member of the renowned South Korean girl group MAMAMOO, celebrated for her dynamic vocals which have significantly contributed to the group’s achievements.

Born on May 30, 1995, Wheein embarked on her musical journey as a trainee under MBK Entertainment. Initially slated to debut with Moonbyul, who led the group, Wheein was to be the youngest member. However, the group disbanded shortly after its formation. Subsequently, she joined Rainbow Bridge World (RBW) and officially debuted with MAMAMOO in 2014.

Wheein ventured into solo activities by debuting on April 17, 2018, with her digital single “Magnolia.” She further showcased her vocal prowess on the reality show “King of Masked Singer” under the pseudonym Half moon.

In her personal life, Wheein is known for her affection for her cat named Ggomo/Kkomo, who frequently appears in her photo and video diaries. Additionally, she shares two matching tattoos with fellow MAMAMOO member Hwasa, featuring the words “caddo” on the neck and “resonance” on the ankle. Wheein’s Baptismal name is Gabriella.

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Love Next Door Script Reading Highlights Jung Hae In and Jung So Min

The upcoming rom-com drama “Love Next Door” is already generating buzz with the recent release of its first script reading session. On July 10, fans were treated to an exciting glimpse of what’s to come as the production team shared photos from the event.

‘Love Next Door’ cast kicks off successful first script reading

In attendance were Director Yoo Je Won and Writer Shin Ha Eun, along with the talented cast, which includes Jung Hae In, Jung So Min, Kim Ji Eun, Yun Ji On, Park Ji Young, Jo Han Chul, Jang Young Nam, Lee Seung Joon, Kim Geum Soon, Han Ye Joo, Jeon Suk Ho, N.Flying’s Lee Seung Hyub, and Shim So Young. The gathering was energetic as the cast and crew came together to bring their characters to life.

“Love Next Door” tells the story of Bae Seok Ryu, portrayed by Jung So Min, a woman looking to restart her troubled life, and Choi Seung Hyo, played by Jung Hae In, who is the son of her mother’s friend and a significant figure from her past. With Yoo Je Won, known for “Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha,” directing and Shin Ha Eun penning the script, the drama promises to deliver a captivating tale set in the Hyereung Neighborhood.

The production team reacted positively to the script reading, noting the warm and friendly atmosphere. “It was a pleasant and heartwarming first script reading as if old friends and neighbors had gathered together,” they said. They encouraged viewers to look forward to the chemistry between the actors and the engaging stories of the characters. “Please watch the passionate acting and synergy of the actors who will immerse you in Choi Seung Hyo and Bae Seok Ryu’s romance around the neighborhood as well as the life stories of the people of Hyereung Neighborhood.”

Love Next Door is scheduled to premiere on August 17 on tvN. There will be 16 episodes in total which will air every Saturday and Sunday.

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Kim Go Eun Will Appear as the First Guest of “Three Meals a Day”

Actress Kim Go Eun is set to appear as the first guest on the highly anticipated tvN variety show “Three Meals A Day: Fishing Village Edition 6,” which will air in the second half of this year. Kim Go Eun recently joined the cast for the recording, where she met with Cha Seung Won, Yoo Hae Jin, and other show members.

After four long years, ‘Three Meals A Day’ will come back for a new edition with exciting guest stars

This season of “Three Meals A Day: Fishing Village Edition” will feature a rotating lineup of new guests in each episode. But unfortunately, the youngest member, Son Ho Jun, will not return. Notably, singer Lim Young Woong has also been confirmed as a guest, although his recording is scheduled for later in July.

Both tvN and Kim Go Eun’s agency remain quiet about the details, and urged fans to tune in for the broadcast.

“Three Meals A Day” is an outdoor variety program that challenges its cast to live a self-sufficient, organic lifestyle by preparing simple meals in a remote fishing village, a contrast to the convenience of city life. Since its Jeongseon edition in 2014, the show has explored various locations, including fishing villages, sea ranches, and mountain villages, with celebrities taking on the challenge of preparing three meals a day.

The new season marks the return of the series after a four-year hiatus, following the conclusion of season 5 in July 2020. Fans eagerly anticipate the dynamic combination of “Chef Cha” Cha Seung Won, “Fishing Expert” Yoo Hae Jin, and the weekly celebrity guests.

In addition to her upcoming variety show appearance, Kim Go Eun recently impressed audiences with her performance as shaman Lee Hwa Rim in the movie “Exhuma,” released last February. The film attracted 11.91 million viewers, earning Kim Go Eun the prestigious title of a “ten-million” actress for the first time in her career.

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Jung Joon Young Exposed in Night Club Footages and Messages

Former singer and convicted rapist Jung Joon Young is once again making headlines after night club footage and direct messages have come to light following his prison release. Recently, video footage showed Jung Joon Young at a nightclub in Lyon, France, where he was seen flirting with women and discussing his plans to open a Korean restaurant in the city.

This controversy arises just months after his release in March. He was sentenced to 5 years for his sex crimes,  including the group rape of an intoxicated woman and the distribution of illegally filmed videos of sexual acts. The footage shows Jung Joon Young dancing and getting intimate with various women, which has sparked public outrage.

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Additionally, direct messages from Jung Joon Young to a woman who later exposed him have also been revealed. In these messages, he claimed to be a writer and composer planning to open a Korean restaurant in Lyon. He expressed disappointment after his messages were public, further fueling the controversy.

Jung Joon Young’s recent actions have ignited widespread criticism and highlighted the ongoing scrutiny of public figures’ behavior, especially those previously convicted of serious crimes. The footage and messages have raised questions about the rehabilitation and accountability of celebrities in the spotlight.

The reality behind the innocence of idols onscreen

The reality behind the idols onscreen is often much darker than it appears. While these celebrities project images of purity and wholesomeness, some are hiding severe misconduct and criminal activities. A big example is the “Burning Sun” scandal, which exposed the involvement of several high-profile K-pop idols in a nightclub in Seoul associated with drug trafficking, sexual assault, and police corruption.

The incident, which came to light in 2019, implicated Seungri, a member of the popular boy band BIGBANG, in allegations of arranging prostitution services and embezzling funds. The scandal shocked fans and highlighted the severe issues lurking behind the polished facades of the entertainment industry.

Moreover, the “Burning Sun” incident is not an isolated case. Over the years, there have been multiple reports of idols involved in sex crimes and assault, contradicting their public personas. For instance, singer Jung Joon-young and former FT Island member Choi Jong-hoon were sentenced to prison for their involvement in the distribution of illicit sex videos and participation in gang rapes.

These revelations have prompted a broader conversation about the pressures and unethical practices within the industry that can drive idols to engage in such heinous acts. As these stories emerge, they challenge the perception of the idol industry’s innocence and call for stricter regulations and oversight to protect the public and the victims of these crimes.

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Ok Taecyeon Discusses His First BL Role in Netflix’s ‘Soul Mate’

Ok Taecyeon is set to star in a new Netflix production titled Soul Mate. On June 27, an industry insider revealed that Taecyeon is currently filming this series, which tells the story of a Japanese man, Narutaki Ryu, and a Korean boxer, Hwang Yo Han. Over the course of a decade, the two meet in Seoul, Berlin, and Tokyo, forming a close bond as they heal each other’s wounds.

Japanese actor Isomura Hayato will play Ryu to Taecyeon’s Yo Han. Hayato is known for starring in shows like Alice in Borderland, Kamen Rider Ghost, Kinou nani tabeta?, and many more. Meanwhile, Taecyeon, best known as a member of the K-pop boy group 2PM under JYP Entertainment, has also made a name for himself as an actor in various K-dramas, including Dream High and Vincenzo.

Soul Mate was initially described as a “bromance,” but recent updates confirm that the relationship between Ryu and Yo Han goes beyond mere friendship. Netflix’s official X account posted a photo of Taecyeon and Hayato sitting side-by-side. The photo’s caption referred to the series as “a 10-year-long love story between two young men.” As if that wasn’t confirmation enough, Netflix also uploaded the tags for Soul Mate, filing it under their “LGBTQ+ TV Shows” category. They also described the show as bittersweet, sentimental, and emotional.

The X post went viral, amassing 1.8 million views as of this writing. This is understandable, as Soul Mate will be Taecyeon’s first BL drama. While Taecyeon has taken on many mainstream roles over the years, this project represents a new and exciting challenge for him.

Taecyeon speaks

Taecyeon expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “I’m extremely delighted to be appearing in Soul Mate. Because there were so many types of characters and genres that I hadn’t tried yet, I’d been wanting to gradually broaden my spectrum [as an actor] and discover new sides of myself, and right at that time, I received the offer to star in Soul Mate.”

He added, “While reading the script, I was intrigued by the character of Hwang Yo Han, and even after I’d finished the script, Yo Han’s inner pain and struggles stayed with me for a long time, which is why I chose the project. Even during filming, I’m continuing the diet and boxing training that I started before filming; that’s how hard I’m working to portray the character of Yo Han with sincerity, so I hope viewers will also look forward to the drama.”

Despite Netflix’s post and Taecyeon’s words, fans are still worried that the show won’t live up to their expectations. They have reason to worry, as mainstream dramas usually have unhappy endings in store for queer love stories. But here’s hoping Soul Mate won’t disappoint! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Who’s excited to see this fine specimen cozy up to another man? Source: Naver.

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Lenzo Yoon Expected to Leave HYBE After Non Compete Clause Expires

Yoon Seok-jun, aka Lenzo Yoon, recently stepped down as CEO of HYBE America. According to an exclusive report by Maeil Business Newspaper Star Today, Yoon has since returned to South Korea with his family in tow. Now, all eyes are on him, as many are eager to find out what his next move will be. Industry insiders suggest that he’s under a noncompete clause until the end of this year and is expected to leave HYBE completely when it expires.

A noncompete clause in an employment contract restricts a former employee from working in similar roles or industries for a certain period after leaving their job. This clause is designed to protect the company by preventing former employees from using insider knowledge to benefit competitors. In this context, competitors refer to other companies in the same industry as HYBE, which manages high-profile K-pop stars like BTS. Think JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, YG Entertainment, and the like.

In Yoon’s case, his noncompete clause prevents him from doing anything with those companies and others like them. This ensures that he won’t be able to use the experience and knowledge he gained at HYBE to benefit another company, potentially harming HYBE’s business interests. Once this clause expires, he’s free to do whatever he wants, whenever he wants, and wherever he wants.

Only time will tell what he’s planning to do.

Music’s Limitless Variations: Global CEO Lenzo Yoon, Big Hit Entertainment | SXSW 2021

All about Lenzo Yoon

Yoon joined HYBE in 2010, when it was still known as BigHit Entertainment. As the Director of Strategic Planning, he worked closely with Bang Si-hyuk, the company’s founder, focusing on content development and platform building. In 2015, Yoon was named Head of Business Planning. Starting in 2017, he strengthened the company’s global partnerships and expanded BTS’s IP business and world tours.

He was promoted three times within the next four years. Yoon rose to CEO of BigHit Entertainment in 2019, became Global CEO in 2020, and was appointed CEO of HYBE America and HYBE Universal in 2021. He made Billboard US’s 2022 Power List alongside Bang Si-hyuk, but stepped down from both positions soon after. He was replaced by Scooter Braun, who became HYBE America’s sole CEO in January 2023. Yoon hasn’t held an official position within HYBE since then, and maintained a relatively low profile until news of his return to South Korea broke.

Scooter Braun, known for discovering Justin Bieber and Ariana Grande, joined HYBE after his company Ithaca Holdings was acquired for about 1 billion USD in April 2021 as part of HYBE’s global expansion. After parting ways with Bieber and Grande last year, Braun retired from music management in June 2024 to focus on his HYBE work. Incidentally, HYBE America reported a net loss of approximately 11.7 million USD last year.

Maeil Business Newspaper Star Today asked HYBE to comment on their report, to no avail. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: What will Yoon do next? Source: Rolling Stone.

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ENHYPEN Previews Tracks from Second Studio Album ‘ROMANCE: UNTOLD’

Earlier this month, ENHYPEN previewed their second full-length album, ROMANCE : UNTOLD, through a video uploaded to HYBE Labels’ YouTube channel. The video has a house party theme, and in it, the members display their charms to full effect as they dance, DJ, and sing along to each track in succession.

In ROMANCE : UNTOLD, ENHYPEN uses different genres of music to tell the story of a boy devoted to someone who makes him a better person. ENGENES’ excitement for this release is at an all-time high due to the members’ involvement in the creative process. According to the group’s agency, BELIFT LAB, every single member of ENHYPEN was credited as a composer, lyricist, or producer for ROMANCE : UNTOLD.

The first half of the album includes the mellow alternative R&B track “Moonstruck” and the soft synth-pop song “Your Eyes Only,” whose medium tempo and rhythmic melody make it a definite earworm. There’s also “Hundred Broken Hearts,” an old-school R&B track with youthful energy.

Fans of ENHYPEN’s leader Jungwon should pay close attention to “Hundred Broken Hearts,” as he composed the topline for it. Composing the topline for a song means creating the main vocal melody and, in some cases, also working on the lyrics for that melody. The topline is the part of a song typically sung by a group’s main vocalist. It’s often the most memorable and catchy part, making it crucial in defining the song’s appeal and identity.

ENHYPEN (엔하이픈) ROMANCE : UNTOLD Preview

ENHYPEN is more hands-on now

The back half of the album includes the dynamic funk/dance-pop track “Brought the Heat Back” and the sexy, sophisticated “Royalty.” There’s also “Paranormal,” a rock DnB song with a singalong melody. Rock DnB is a fusion genre that combines elements of rock music with the fast-paced, breakbeat-driven rhythms of drum and bass. While ENHYPEN has been known to experiment with different styles in their music, this marks the first time they’ll try rock DnB.

All seven members contributed to the lyrics of “Highway 1009,” which means lines like “Hold me tighter so I can stand again even on weary days” came right from the members’ hearts. Heeseung also helped compose and produce this one. Finally, the album’s title track, “XO (Only If You Say Yes)” is, of course, a standout. Unlike most of ENHYPEN’s previous title tracks, which are dark and energetic, this one features a sweet melody and impactful lyrics. It’s about a boy who would do absolutely anything for his special someone.

Jungwon, Heeseung, Jay, Jake, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-ki are becoming more and more hands-on with their music as time goes by, which is a sign of how far they’ve come since debuting four years ago via I-LAND. In a press release, BELIFT LAB stated, “As this is ENHYPEN’s first full-length album in about two years and nine months, the members and the production staff have put in great effort to achieve a high level of completion. Fans can look forward to ENHYPEN’s deeper musical color and authenticity as artists.”

ROMANCE : UNTOLD is set to drop on July 12. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This photo is from the album’s third set of concept photos. Source: Weverse.

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