Ahn Sung Il, the CEO of The Givers, has admitted to falsifying his academic and career credentials. This comes in the wake of recent allegations questioning the authenticity of his background. Those keeping up with FIFTY FIFTY’s legal battle know that The Givers produced their breakthrough hit, “Cupid.”
On July 25, The Givers issued a statement addressing the issue. They confirmed the inaccuracies in Ahn Sung Il’s academic and career history. The company expressed regret for the confusion caused and apologized for failing to provide accurate information. They also promised to fix things.
The allegations against Ahn Sung Il surfaced on July 24. Investigations revealed that online portals listed Ahn as a graduate of Chung-Ang University’s Department of Business Administration. But the university’s alumni records don’t include his name. Furthermore, discrepancies were found between Ahn’s career details as presented on portal sites and his actual work history.
In response to these allegations, Ahn Sung Il has shown humility and accepted the accusations. He has also been accused of trying to poach members of FIFTY FIFTY from ATTRAKT.
This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of honesty in professional settings. It also highlights the consequences of falsifying personal information, especially if you have a high-profile position. The Givers and Ahn Sung Il will face intense scrutiny as they attempt to rebuild credibility and trust. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: This development in the ATTRAKT-FIFTY FIFTY-The Givers battle has people not knowing who to side with. Source: The Givers/The Givers’ official website.
Jungkook of BTS has made a significant splash on the Billboard Hot 100 with his new song “Seven,” featuring Latto, debuting at the top spot. This makes Jungkook the second BTS member to have a No. 1 hit on the Hot 100, following Jimin‘s “Like Crazy” in April.
🎉Billboard #Hot100 No.1🎉 월화수목금토일 매일매일 'Seven (feat. Latto)' 를 사랑해주신 전세계 모든 아미 여러분 진심으로 감사합니다.
This also marks Latto‘s first No. 1. She previously peaked at No. 3 with “Big Energy” in April 2022. With this latest achievement, Jungkook has become the youngest male solo artist to debut at No. 1 on the chart since Justin Bieber.
“Seven” debuts at No. 2 on the Digital Song Sales chart and No. 4 on Streaming Songs. While below the all-format Radio Songs tally, it debuts at No. 30 on Adult Pop Airplay and No. 33 on Pop Airplay.
“And I want to take the first place of Billboard Hot 100” Jungkook has accomplished his dream once again 😭🤍
Meanwhile, Jason Aldean’s “Try That in a Small Town” came in at No. 2 on the Hot 100. The song, released in May, had the biggest sales week for a country song in over a decade. Interestingly, “Try That in a Small Town” was not initially seen as a competitor for “Seven.” However, the song gained sudden attention due to the release of its controversial music video on the 14th.
The video, shot in a Tennessee courtroom, depicted scenes of protests and looting, and the song’s lyrics warned of repercussions for such behaviors in a small town. The music video, interpreted as discriminatory, and the lyrics implying gun use led to a boycott by CMT (Country Music Television), a cable broadcaster in the U.S. specializing in country music.
The conservative white base, country music’s main fan base, was against this action. They expressed their opinion by buying and streaming “Try That In A Small Town,” pitting it against “Seven.” Their efforts led to it drawing 11.6 million streams (up 547%) and 7.3 million in radio airplay audience (up 17%) and selling 228,000 (up 27,625%) in the week of July 14-20.
“Seven” still beat it handily. It debuted with 21.9 million streams, 6.4 million in airplay audience, and 153,000 combined digital and CD singles sold from its release July 14 through July 20, according to Luminate. Jungkook’s accomplishment is seen by many as a victory against discrimination and racism, as a Korean artist’s single beat a white male’s track on the Billboard Hot 100—a song whose spike in popularity was fueled by hate.
By the numbers
“Seven” is the 1,151st No. 1 since the Hot 100 began in August 1958. It’s the 68th leader to debut atop the chart. Furthermore, it’s Jungkook‘s best-selling song in the U.S. by total units, surpassing “Dreamers” in just over a week.
Jungkook earned his first Hot 100 No. 1, or even Top 10, after charting two songs in 2022: Charlie Puth’s “Left and Right,” featuring Jungkook, hit No. 22 after Jungkook’s own “Stay Alive” spent one week on the list at No. 95.
With BTS having logged six Hot 100 No. 1s and Jungkook and Jimin with one No. 1 each, BTS joins The Beatles, The Black Eyed Peas, Destiny’s Child, and Genesis as the only groups with leaders and multiple members who earned No. 1s. All of Jungkook‘s No. 1s on the Hot 100 across his entire career include the hits “Dynamite,” “Savage Love (Laxed – Siren Beat),” “Life Goes On,” “Butter,” “Permission to Dance,” “My Universe,” and “Seven.” — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jungkook released previously unseen photos from his “Seven” campaign photoshoot while in the UK. Source: Rolling Stone/Rolling Stone UK.
K-pop group 2PMwill reunite for a full-group concert to mark their 15th debut anniversary. The group’s agency, JYP Entertainment, announced the highly-anticipated event last July 24. The concert, titled It’s 2PM, will take place at Seoul’s Jamsil Indoor Stadium on September 9 at 6:00 PM KST and September 10 at 5:00 PM KST. The group made the announcement on social media and shared a new poster at the same time.
The upcoming concert marks a significant milestone for 2PM, who debuted in 2008 and quickly rose to fame with their energetic performances and catchy music. The group last released their seventh studio album MUST in June 2021 and held an online fan meeting to connect with their fans.
Despite changes in 2PM‘s management, with Chansung and Taecyeon leaving JYP Entertainment to pursue their own paths, the agency has assured fans that 2PM will continue as a six-member group. Taecyeon signed with a new agency in 2018, while Chansung left JYP Entertainment in 2021.
The upcoming It’s 2PM concert is a testament to the group’s enduring popularity and commitment to their fans. The event promises to be a grand reunion for 2PM and their fans, offering everyone a chance to celebrate the group’s 15th anniversary together.
As the show’s date approaches, fans are getting more excited about the group’s performance and the chance to see all six members on stage again. The It’s 2PM concert is not just a celebration of 2PM‘s 15th year in the K-pop industry but also a celebration of the group’s journey and strong bond with their fans. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: 2PM’s last studio album as a full group, their seventh overall, was released in 2021. Source: Twitter/2PM’s official Twitter account.)
During a chaotic arrival at Incheon Airport, BTS‘s Jungkook made headlines with his unique outfit. Jungkook‘s distinctive style and dedication to his fans shone through despite the tumultuous scene.
Concerns Mount Over Idols' Safety as Jungkook Recounts "Scary" Experience at Incheon Airport Arrival pic.twitter.com/a6bpzJF5RU
On July 24, Jungkook returned from his overseas schedules, looking as handsome as ever. Those at the airport were thrilled to catch a glimpse of the superstar, but the reality behind the scenes was anything but calm. Chaos erupted when the barriers keeping fans back were lifted. Despite the best efforts of airport security, the crowd became difficult to control. Jungkook reportedly almost fell over outside the airport.
However, Jungkook‘s unique style caught people’s attention amidst the chaos. He was seen wearing a piece from Balenciaga’s women’s range, a pair of pants that looked like a skirt from the back. This bold fashion statement not only turned heads but also broke gender norms, showcasing Jungkook‘s fearless personality and individualistic style.
jeon jungkook came home wearing a women's black apron pants skirt from balenciaga, take a rest jungkookie. 💕
Fans and netizens quickly took to social media to express their admiration for Jungkook‘s sartorial choices. The discussion about Jungkook‘s outfit extended to social media, where fans shared their thoughts on his clothes.
Chaos greeted Jungkook at Incheon Airport
ARMY’s excitement grew when MTV posted a photo of Jungkook wearing the same pants during his rehearsal in London. They praised him for breaking gender barriers and expressing himself through fashion. This incident highlighted BTS‘s progressive approach to styling, where they refuse to allow gender norms to dictate their style choices.
The chaos that greeted Jungkook at Incheon Airport was palpable. Fans and press people alike were eager to catch a glimpse of him. Despite the frenzy, he remained calm and collected as he greeted his fans.
ARMY expressed their worries for Jungkook‘s safety. They thanked airport security for protecting the BTS member but stressed the importance of maintaining a safe environment for idols and fans. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: MTV UK was the first to post a photo of Jungkook wearing Balenciaga’s Women’s Black Apron Pants Skirt. Source: Twitter/MTV UK’s official Twitter account.
Actor Kim Seon Ho, known for starring in K-dramasStart-Up and Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, was in Manila recently for a fan meet. This visit marked his second time in the country, strengthening his connection with his Filipino fans, known as Seonhohadas.
Kim Seon Ho first visited the Philippines in January 2023. His return to Manila for BENCH’s Love to Meet Our Good Boy, was met with enthusiasm from his fans.
Before the fan meet, Kim Seon Ho engaged with the local media at a press conference in Bonifacio Global City, Taguig. He talked about his acting career, hobbies, and role as a global ambassador for the Filipino clothing brand BENCH.
The actor, who rose to fame for his role as Han Ji-Pyeong in Start-Up and later as handyman Hong Du-Sik in Hometown Cha-Cha-Cha, shared his process of preparing for his roles. He told the media he spends one to two months understanding his character, having conversations with directors, and looking through various references.
Kim Seon Ho also expressed his affinity for portraying ordinary characters that resonate with the audience. He enjoys working on scenes where he can show his ordinary side, making his characters more relatable to viewers.
The actor also discussed his personal interests during the press conference. He revealed that he enjoys taking walks and reflecting on his day. He even rides the subway train to stay connected with everyday life and society.
Despite his popularity, Kim Seon Ho remains humble. He called himself a “lazy actor” with room for improvement. However, he’s optimistic about his growth as an actor and asked fans to look forward to his future performances.
Kim Seon Ho wore a “couple bracelet”
Kim Seon Ho‘s visit to Manila was about more than just meeting fans. He also took the opportunity to pose in front of his billboards for BENCH in Makati City. In his photos on Instagram, the actor was spotted wearing a black bracelet given by a fan. The fan, who goes by the handle @shasha_ily on Twitter, took to Twitter, expressing her disbelief and happiness that Kim Seon Ho actually wore the bracelet she had given him.
The bracelet was part of a set, with the fan keeping the white one and giving the black one to Kim Seon Ho. She shared photos of the bracelets and her letter to the actor on Twitter. In her tweets, she expressed joy and disbelief at the unexpected turn of events.
Just opened my socials today and guess what?
KIM SEON HO IS WEARING THE BRACELET I GAVE HIM. This is a couple bracelet. White for me, black for him.
I still can't process this, but I just want to cry out of happiness. 😭💖
Kim Seon Ho‘s gesture of wearing the gift was a fashion statement and a testament to how much he values his fans. It showed his appreciation and desire to acknowledge them.
This heartwarming moment added a special touch to the actor’s visit. It highlighted the actor’s humility and deep connection with his Filipino fans, who are eagerly awaiting his future projects and potential visits. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: The “Start-Up” star modeled a BENCH shirt made from 12 recyclable PET bottles. Source: Twitter/BENCH’s official Twitter account.
BTS members Jiminand Jungkookfaced an unfortunate incident in New York recently: a seafarer made xenophobic comments about them, earning backlash from fans.
Jungkook, who was in the U.S. promoting his new solo single “Seven” was traveling with Jimin. They intended to enjoy some leisure time on a yacht trip in New York. However, their private outing took an unpleasant turn when the yacht’s captain said disrespectful, xenophobic things about them.
The captain recorded videos of Jimin and Jungkook, who were unaware they were being filmed. He later shared the videos on his Instagram story, infuriating ARMY. In one of the videos, the captain said, “The dude in charge, he was all, ‘You need to put your phones away.’ I said, ‘Listen, bro, they’re getting on my boat, not the other way around.’”
The fans saw the captain’s words as a clear display of xenophobia. Consequently, they mass-emailed BigHit Music, BTS’s management company, informing them of the situation. They urged BigHit Music to sue the captain for invading the artists’ privacy and making xenophobic comments.
In response to the incident, ARMY began boycotting the yacht company. The backlash was so severe that the yacht company pulled its official website (https://www.setadriftyachtcharters.com/) offline for a while. (It’s back up now.) The captain and the company deactivated or set their social media accounts to private.
This incident isn’t the first time Korean artists encountered racism and xenophobia while promoting outside their native land. As of this writing, BTS fans worldwide are awaiting a response from the yacht company and for HYBE Corporation, BigHit Music’s parent company, to take appropriate action regarding the invasion of privacy.
i hope jungkook and jimin are okay… and i hope that captain of the yacht gets his license revoked. why is it so hard to show basic human decency?? filming someone without their consent and then saying after that nobody even knows them like what are you even after????
This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges K-pop artists face while promoting abroad. It also underscores the power of fans who stand up against terrible behavior to ensure their idols get the respect they deserve. -K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: As always, Jimin and Jungkook were together on the “Yet to Come” MV Shoot set. Source: YouTube/BTS’s official YouTube channel.
Jihyo, leader of the popular K-pop girl group TWICE, is preparing to debut as a soloist next month. The singer will release a mini-album titled ZONE, featuring the lead single “Killin’ Me Good.”
She recentlyunveiled a detailed timetable for her solo debut on TWICE‘s official Twitter account. The timetable includes the release of three spoilers for her single from July 29 to 31. A snippet of the song will follow on August 4. The tracklist for ZONEwill come on July 31, with a concept trailer for the album coming on August 2. Lastly, from August 7 to 10, Jihyowill also drop different concept photos.
TWICE's Jihyo unveils the timetable to her upcoming solo debut album, ‘ZONE.’ Out Friday, August 18th. pic.twitter.com/vlCYn5PN1X
In the week leading up to the release of ZONE, fans can look forward to two album sneak peeks on August 11 and 16. MV teasers for “Killin’ Me Good” will follow on August 14 and 17. The mini-album’s official release is on August 18 at 1:00 PM KST/12:00 MN EST.
This makes Jihyo the second TWICE memberto do a solo project. Vocalist Nayeon was the first to go solo with her EP Im Nayeon and its lead single, the bubbly, infectious “POP!” in June 2022. In a March 2023 interview, member Chaeyoung hinted that the group’s members intend to release more solo projects.
Jihyo marks a significant milestone
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o_X-gtP-pxs
TWICE‘s latest group release was the mini-album Ready To Be, bannered by the lead single “Set Me Free.” Following its release, the group embarked on a large-scale world tour, starting with a two-night concert in Seoul. The tour’s first leg ended with two well-attended stadium shows in the U.S., one of which saw TWICE become the first K-pop girl group to sell out the MetLife Stadium.
Jihyo‘s solo debut with ZONE and “Killin’ Me Good” is eagerly anticipated by TWICE’s loyal fans, aka ONCE. This release marks a significant milestone in Jihyo‘s career and adds to the growing list of solo projects by TWICE members. It’ll be exciting to see how Jihyo‘s charms and talent will be reflected in her solo work. — K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: In 2021, Jihyo did a solo version of “Crown” by Camila Cabello and Grey. Now she’s releasing original material. Source: YouTube/Twice’s official YouTube channel.
An unexpected connection formed between BTS‘s Jimin and Hollywood actor Ryan Gosling, marking a unique crossover between K-pop and Hollywood. Some playful banter about their matching outfits and Jimin’s love for Gosling’s movie The Notebook sparked this connection.
Fans first noticed a striking similarity between Jimin‘s outfit in the “Permission to Dance” MV and Gosling‘s costume in the Barbie movie. Instead of ignoring their comments, Gosling addressed the issue head-on. He acknowledged the resemblance and praised Jimin for wearing the outfit first and best. In a video, Gosling said the “Ken code” dictates that if one Ken copies another’s style, he must offer his most prized possession. In this case, it was Ken’s black-and-white guitar from the Barbie movie.
Jimin, a massive fan of Gosling and his movie The Notebook, was thrilled to receive the guitar. He responded to Gosling‘s video message with his an Instagram reel. In the reel, Jimin thanked Gosling for the guitar and expressed his excitement for the Barbie movie. He congratulated Gosling on the movie’s release and complimented his style.
This interaction delighted fans from the K-pop and Hollywood sectors. It bridged the gap between the two worlds and led to a wholesome exchange between the two stars. Fans are now waiting to see if this unexpected connection will lead to more collaborations or interactions in the future.
Jimin has expressed admiration for Gosling‘s work, particularly the movie The Notebook. He once wrote on Weverse that he watched it multiple times when he got COVID-19. That doesn’t include all the times he watched it before then. But don’t ask Jimin how many times he has watched it since it was released. He probably lost count already!
This playful exchange between Jimin and Ryan Gosling highlights the potential for connections and friendships to form across different sectors of the global entertainment industry. — K-Pop News Writer
The K-pop scene is buzzing with excitement as former Trainee A member Lee Leo was revealed to be 131 Label’s newest artist. This revelation confirms previous speculation and marks a new chapter in Leo’s musical journey, a journey that has not been without its share of controversy.
Lee Leo was in Trainee A, a pre-debut group formed in April 2021 by Big Hit Music. Even before joining the group, Leo had begun to make his presence felt in the industry. Notably, he appeared in BTS‘s music video for “Permission to Dance” alongside two girls who later debuted in the girl groupNewJeans. This appearance further increased his visibility and fan base.
Trainee A was set to debut, but circumstances took a different turn when Leo faced backlash for a misogynistic song he wrote a while back. The offensive and inappropriate lyrics led to a wave of criticism. Leo and his producers apologized, acknowledging their error in judgment. Ultimately, the backlash was too intense for the boy, and he left the team instead. Following his exit, BigHit Music canceled Trainee A’s debut, leaving fans and the trainees uncertain.
The confirmation of Leo‘s signing with 131 Label sparked fans’ joy. 131 Label revealed the news in a tweet, setting the stage for Leo‘s upcoming debut. However, whether he’ll debut as a soloist or in a group remains to be seen.
Meanwhile, 131 Label, Leo’s new home, underwent significant changes. B.I., who founded it, stepped down from his management position to focus on his music. A new team of industry professionals took over, aiming to fully support B.I. and other artists like Leo in their creative endeavors.
A heartfelt message for Lee Leo
Sangwon’s message to LEO 😭
There’s so many memories between us, we laugh and cry together, we get happy and sad together.. for today hyung is the coolest in the world ✨ Finally hyung is revealed to the world, i feel like crying and thankful. You’ve worked so so hard + pic.twitter.com/yC4gkRYWfU
Following the announcement of Leo‘s signing, Sangwon, one of his former groupmates in Trainee A, posted a heartfelt message on Instagram. The message was translated from Korean to English by a fan and shared on Twitter. Sangwon expressed his admiration for Leo, reminiscing on their shared memories and expressing his belief in Leo‘s future success. Sangwon assured Leo of his continued support and congratulated him on his new journey.
LEO replied to Sangwon 😭😭
“(Crying)😭😭😭 my friend and also my family that i adore.. thank you so so much, I’m very sorry, and I love you!!!!! 😭❤️💜 I’m still lacking a lot in all aspect but you always tried to understand me, when there’s no one who accepts me.. you’re like… https://t.co/GeKKfizccQpic.twitter.com/C1mSFeeXN5
Responding to Sangwon‘s post, Leo expressed his gratitude. He acknowledged his shortcomings and thanked Sangwon for always understanding him. Leo apologized for debuting first and promised to work hard so Sangwon could follow him. He ended his message by expressing love for his friend.
Leo also opened his own SNS accounts, including Instagram, where he left a message for his fans. He expressed excitement about starting fresh as a soloist with 131 Label and shared his new artist profile photos. — K-Pop News Writer
Fans of K-pop boy group ENHYPEN took to social media to express their outrage at the act’s recent encounter at the Incheon Airport with fans.
ENHYPEN recently performed at the KPOP LUX festival in Madrid, Spain, and returned to South Korea on Monday, July 24. However, the group was met with an enthusiastic throng of fans at the airport.
In the videos circulating on social media, the crowd flocked the members right after they walked through the airport doors, with some fans even crossing barricades and coming dangerously close to the artists.
The clips also showed that some of the ENHYPEN members were even getting pushed by the crowd, while others were almost getting separated from the group. Many netizens also pointed out how member Jake is visibly seen aiding Sunoo in navigating the crowd.
ENGENEs, or fans of ENHYPEN, were immediately infuriated by the incident, calling for tighter security measures from both the group’s agency BELIFT LAB and the airport.
Fans online also berated the crowd at the airport, saying that their lack of control in handling their excitement harmed the members.
“Jake got pushed, his jacket got grabbed. Even the reporter had to ask him if he was okay. Sunoo got separated from the group at some point. This is terrible. I genuinely feel so frustrated,” one tweet read.
Another wrote, “It’s been 3 years since ENHYPEN is getting mobbed at the airport by fan sites and fans in general, every time. They need to move and do something to protect their artists.”
“If even the press had to ask the boys whether they’re okay or not there’s something very wrong with the way ‘fans’ are acting. this conversation is getting very tiring,” another fan said.
it’s a whole mess and when sunoo got separated with the rest of the members and jay looked pissed. I hope they get plenty of rest after this 🙁 pic.twitter.com/4tVMvbH49l
if even the press had to ask the boys whether they’re okay or not there’s something very wrong with the way “fans” are acting. this conversation is getting very tiring. https://t.co/rQG91U6TQ6
jake got pushed, his jacket got grabbed, even the reporter had to ask him if he was okay. sunoo got separated from the group at some point, this is terrible i genuinely feel so frustrated https://t.co/JHQTF6yGWE
it's so annoying, upsetting and frustrating !!!! is it going to happen each time they leave or come back to Korea !? like- can't you give them some SPACE ?? is it too much to ask ?? I think their company should do something…that can't keep on happening 😑🫥
As of writing, BELIFT LAB has yet to address the issue. But it can be recalled that the agency released in September 2020 a fan etiquette guideline after ENHYPEN was also mobbed at the airport following their event on Jeju Island.
Composed of Jungwon, Heeseung, Jake, Jay, Sunghoon, Sunoo, and Ni-ki, ENHYPEN was formed through the reality talent program I-LAND. They made their debut in November 2020, and are known for songs “Drunk-Dazed,” “FEVER,” “Polaroid Love,” and “Future Perfect.”
ENHYPENis also set to embark on their second world tour titled FATE, which will kick off on July 29 and 30 at the KSPO Dome in Seoul, South Korea. It will also have stops in Japan and the United States.
