Author: Kpop News Writer

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Infinite Set for July Comeback; To Embark on Concert Tour

The long wait is almost over INSPIRITs because second-generation K-pop group INFINITE has confirmed that they’ll be releasing a new album and embarking on a concert tour. 

On Monday, July 9, INFINITE released a scheduler for their upcoming full-group comeback. 

The poster revealed that their seventh mini-album will be titled 13EGIN, and will be out on July 31. 

 

INSPIRITs, the group’s fandom, were quick to note how special the album title 13EGIN is, given that this year marks INFINITE’s 13th debut anniversary.

13EGIN is also INFINITE’s first release after they successfully hold the trademark rights to their group’s name — definitely marking a new era for the group’s future activities. 

In May, it was reported that the CEO of Woollim Entertainment, INFINITE’s original agency, handed the trademark rights to the group’s leader Kim Sunggyu. Sunggyu is the head of INFINITE Company, the agency that the six members established. 

 13EGIN will also be their first full group comeback in five years, following their third studio album TOP SEED in 2018. 

Since then, the members – Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Seungyeol, L, and Sungjong – have all left Woollim Entertainment, pursued solo careers, and carried out their military services. 

Aside from the new album, INFINITE will also hold a solo concert tour titled COMEBACK AGAIN.

It will kick off at the KSPO Dome in Seoul from August 19-20, and will have stops in Yokohama, Taipei, and Macau. 

COMEBACK AGAIN will serve as INFINITE’s first full group concert in seven years. 

INFINITE is best known for their songs “BTD,” “Be Mine,” “Paradise,” “Man In Love,” “The Chaser,” and “Nothing’s Over.”

Featured image: INFINITE’s Facebook

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Mnet Starts Application for Audition Series ‘I-Land 2’

Looking for a sign to pursue your K-pop idol dreams? Well, here it is! 

Mnet announced on Monday, July 10, that they’re launching the second season of the audition program I-LAND. 

I-LAND is a reality survival series that follows the process of forming the next-generation of K-pop idol groups. 

“A groundbreaking adventure begins,” Mnet wrote in the teaser. “Ready to be the biggest K-pop girl group of 2024?” 

Applicants are open to girls who are born before January 1, 2011, regardless of their nationality. Interested applicants should also be able to travel internationally without any reason to be disqualified for traveling abroad. 

According to their website, the aspiring idols should send three videos in about one minute each of them doing self-introduction, dancing, and singing or rapping. Online applications will be accepted from July 10 to August 6 only. 

The program is expected to air in the first half of 2024, but a final release date has yet to be announced. 

The trainees who will survive the challenges in I-LAND 2 will debut as a girl group under agency WakeOne Entertainment, the same label that handles ZEROBASEONE and Kep1er. ZEROBASEONE were chosen from the audition program Boys Planet, while Kep1er was formed through the series Girls Planet 999. 

The first season of I-LAND, which aired in June to September 2020, was a joint project between Mnet and Belift Lab, an entertainment agency established through a joint venture between CJ ENM and HYBE. It formed the seven-boy group ENHYPEN. 

Featured image: I-LAND’s website

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jin and J-Hope’s Friendship Just Got Cuter in Military Service

The bond shared by the members of the world-famous South Korean boy band, BTS, is well-known and cherished by their fans, called ARMY. This bond is evident in the recent interactions between members Jin and j-hope, even as they fulfill their mandatory military service duties.

On July 8th, j-hope surprised fans with a post on the fan community platform Weverse. 

Jung Hoseok enlisted as an active-duty soldier for the 36th Infantry Division in April and completed his basic training in May. He’s currently serving as an assistant instructor for new recruits at a training center in Wonju, Gangwon Province. He is set to be discharged on October 17th, 2024.

Jin, also serving his military service, accused j-hope of “copying his content” in a post titled “Hobi’s letter.” Since he enlisted last year, Jin has stayed in touch with the fans through posts and videos on BTS’s platforms. So when he saw j-hope’s post, Jin joked about the audacity of a private first class (j-hope) copying a corporal like himself. BTS’s eldest member ended with a playful warning to j-hope, saying that the latter should avoid making eye contact with him when they meet during the holidays.

The playful banter continued in another post where Jin challenged j-hope (and, by extension, their other bandmates as well). Jin said that if even one of them isn’t ranked among the Special Forces, He added that j-hope needed to achieve that distinction within the month. However, it’s important to note that Jin was only joking.

Their interactions give fans a glimpse into the close-knit and playful relationship between the BTS members. Despite their global fame and busy schedules, including their military service duties, they continue to engage with each other in a friendly and humorous manner. This camaraderie is one of the many reasons why BTS continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

In a heartfelt post on BTS‘s 10th anniversary, Jin promised fans he would come back sometime in 2024. He thanked them for their continuous love and support over the years.

As Jin and j-hope continue their military service, fans can look forward to more heartwarming and humorous interactions. These moments are a testament to the enduring bond between the members of BTS, a bond that transcends their music and resonates with fans across the globe.

Featured Image: J-hope shared never-before-seen photos of them when Jin enlisted in the army in December 2022. Source: Instagram/@uarmyhope

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LATEST STORIES VARIETY

EXO’s DO, Kim Woo Bin, Lee Kwang Soo, and Kim Ki Bang Among Star-Studded Cast Confirmed for Na PD’s New Variety Show

Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, is making headlines yet again. The acclaimed producer is set to launch a new variety show. The cast of this highly anticipated show includes prominent actors Kim Woo Bin, Lee Kwang Soo, Do Kyung-Soo (aka D.O. from the K-pop group EXO), and Kim Ki Bang.

An entertainment official revealed to JTBC Enternews that the four celebrities are filming the new show in Gangwon following the opening shoot in Seoul. The specific concept of the program remains under wraps, but the news of these close friends appearing together on a show has already sparked significant interest in the broadcasting world.

Na PD is a highly influential figure in South Korean entertainment. He’s a television producer who created some of the most popular and successful variety shows in South Korea, namely 2 Days & 1 Night, Grandpas Over Flowers, New Journey to the West, and Three Meals a Day.  

The Game Caterers, another successful variety show by Na PD, is known for its entertaining and often chaotic episodes featuring various K-pop idols. One such memorable episode featured the boy group SEVENTEEN. The episode was filled with hilarity and unexpected moments, which resulted in Na PD having to do the “Super” dance challenge with SEVENTEEN after the episode aired.

Na PD’s innovative approach to reality and variety programming has garnered critical acclaim and high ratings, earning him multiple awards. The shows he produces are known for their heartwarming moments, humor, and unique concepts, making him a beloved figure among viewers.

In related news, SM Entertainment group EXO, of which D.O. is a member, is also working on a new reality show. However, this project is separate from D.O.‘s involvement in Na PD‘s variety show.

Featured Image: Na PD took pains to explain the rules of a game to SEVENTEEN during an episode of ‘The Game Caterers.’ Source: channel fullmoon/Na PD’s YouTube channel

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BTS LATEST STORIES

Read: BTS’ J-Hope Gifts Letter to Fans on ARMY Day While Serving in the Military

How are we feeling, ARMYs? BTS rapper J-Hope surprised fans on Sunday, July 9, with an update about how he’s faring in his military service. 

In the Weverse post, J-Hope, or Jung Ho-seok in real life, shared that he’s now serving as the training instructor at the 36th Infantry Division recruit training center after completing his training. 

He continued that while he hadn’t had enough time to reach out to his fans given how busy he is with the training, he still wanted to say hello to them even if it’s only through a short message. 

J-Hope also couldn’t help but recall his memories from July of last year and compare it to how he’s spending it now. “These are two completely different sides of me but I think that they’re the same in that I’m still filled with fiery passion as I plan my future,” he wrote. 

He also promised ARMYs that whether it’s as Jung Ho-seok or BTS’ J-Hope, he will continue to live his life to the fullest in whatever situation he is in. 

He ended the post by wishing good health to his fans, fellow BTS members, and military personnel. 

J-Hope began his basic military training on April 18 at the New Recruit Training Center Division A in Gangwon-do. At the time, he also assured ARMYs that he’s no longer worried about his military enlistment. 

J-Hope, who is the second BTS member to enlist, following member Jin, is expected to be discharged by October 17, 2024. 

Following BTS’ announcement in June 2022 that they’ll be taking a break, the members have focused on solo activities, with other members enlisting in the military.

Jungkook, the group’s youngest member, is the latest BTS member to have a solo release, following j-hope’s JACK IN THE BOX, Jin’s The Astronaut, RM’s Indigo, and Jimin’s FACE.

Featured image: BTS’ Facebook

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K-POP ARTISTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWICE Stuns the TODAY Show In More Ways Than One

TWICE recently made a splash on the TODAY Show‘s Summer Concert Series, leaving the audience in awe with their incredible performance and stylish outfits. The nine-member girl group showcased their talent and charisma, delivering a show that will be remembered for years to come.

During their appearance, TWICE treated the audience to a medley of their hits, igniting the stage with their flawless choreography and infectious energy. Everyone sang along as TWICE performed a montage of songs from their recently released project Ready to Be, with songs including “Alcohol Free,” “Set Me Free,” and “Moonlight Sunrise.”

“Set Me Free” hit No. 7 on the Billboard Bubbling Under Hot 100, their highest peak on the chart. “Moonlight Sunrise,” their second English-language release, debuted at No. 84 on the Hot 100.

Not only did TWICE deliver an electrifying performance, but they also made a lasting impression with their ensembles. Known for being fashionable onstage and off, Chaeyoung, Dahyun, Jeongyeon, Jihyo, Mina, Momo, Nayeon, Sana, and Tzuyu wore eye-catching outfits that complemented their music and stage presence.

The K-pop group showcased their fashion coordination, featuring crop tops and experimenting with various colors, silhouettes, and textures. The members showcased their individual styles, with some opting for baggy jeans and cargo pants adorned with distressed details, while others chose to wear miniskirts. Keeping their footwear neutral, the group members wore either black or white boots and sneakers.

TWICE‘s fashion-forward approach to performing was evident as they confidently ran through hit after hit. Each member’s unique fashion sense added a layer of individuality to their group’s overall aesthetic. Their attention to detail and commitment to putting on a visually appealing performance solidified their status as fashion icons in the K-pop industry.

Described by the TODAY Show’s Craig Melvin as “the history-making queens of K-pop,” TWICE has become the first K-pop girl group to sell out a stadium in North America.

What’s more, Ready to Be debuted at an impressive No. 2 on the Billboard 200 chart, accumulating over 153,000 album-equivalent units. The album’s pure sales accounted for 145,500 units, marking TWICE‘s most successful consumption week in the United States and their highest-charting title in the country.

Individually, the members of TWICE are also making waves in fashion as brand ambassadors. In June, Miu Miu tapped main dancer Momo to join their family, further highlighting the influence and popularity of TWICE as both musical and style icons.

(Featured Image: TWICE posed for a photo with the ONCEs who waited hours in the New York City heat to see them perform on the TODAY Show. Source: Twitter/TWICE’s official Twitter account)

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VARIETY

Watch: Loona’s Odd Eye Circle Releases Highlight Medley for ‘Version Up’

Mark your calendars because we’re days away from hearing new music from Odd Eye Circle.

On Saturday, July 8, ARTMS released a two-and-a-half minute highlight medley for Odd Eye Circle’s upcoming album Version Up. 

The six-track album, which will be released on July 12, will start with “Were You Waiting?” and followed by the title track “AIR FORCE ONE.” Its other songs include “Je Ne Sais Quoi,” “Lucid,” “Love Me Like,” and “My Secret Playlist.”

Prior to the highlight medley, Odd Eye Circle also released solo teaser images for members Jinsoul, Choerry, and Kim Lip, wherein all three idols are seen wearing eye patches, gloves, and black-and-white ensembles. 

The album Version Up will serve as Jinsoul, Kim Lip, and Choerry’s first release under Modhaus, the agency founded by LOONA’s former creative director Jaden Jeong. The subunit will also embark on their Europe tour starting August. 

The three idols, together with Heejin, signed with Modhaus in March. Their contracts with former label BlockBerry Creative were suspended in January. 

In April, Modhaus launched the ARTMS project to refer to the activities of the LOONA members under their agency. Haseul, who signed with Modhaus in June, has also been added to the agency’s ARTMS project. 

All 12 members of LOONA have left BlockBerry Creative, after winning a string of lawsuits to suspend their contracts with the agency. 

Featured image: ARTMS’ Twitter

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

“Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” Is Finally Here!

When it’s ARMY day 2023, but it’s BTS who is giving gifts! 

K-pop sensation BTS released on Sunday, July 9 the book “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS,” which details the group’s journey as aspiring artists to global sensations. 

Authored by renowned journalist Myeongseok Kang in collaboration with BTS members  RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, the autobiography delves into the group’s idol journey, their rise to fame, and their profound impact on the music industry worldwide. 

BIGHIT MUSIC has earlier announced that “Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS” will contain a “chronological summary of BTS’ music career from their pre-debut days to the present as well as anticipations for their future endeavors.” 

“We hope “Beyond the Story” will become a ‘candid record shared’ between BTS and ARMY,” the label shared. 

The members also open up about their individual experiences, shedding light on the challenges and lessons that have shaped their careers. BTS will also share their artist process and discuss the inspirations behind their world-renowned discography. 

Aside from personal anecdotes, the 544-page book will also include never-before-seen photographs of the members, as well as their reflective essays. 

“Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS,” which was published by Big Hit Music in South Korea and Flatiron Books in the United States, was released a month after the group’s 10th debut anniversary. It also coincides with ARMY day, or the fandom’s anniversary. 

According to the trailer that was released in June, the title of the book’s seven chapters are as follows: 1) Seoul; 2) Why We Exist; 3) Love, Hate, Army; 4) Inside Out; 5) A Flight That Never Lands; 6) The World of BTS; and 7) We Are. 

Prior to its release, the book has already claimed the top spot in Amazon and Barnes & Noble. While its original edition is written in Korean, BIGHIT MUSIC noted that the book will also be published in 23 languages. 

BTS made their debut in June 2013 with the single “2 COOL 4 SKOOL.” The septet has since established world records and even entered the Guinness World Records Hall of Fame.

In June 2022, the group announced that they’re taking a break to focus on solo releases while other members enlist in the military. 

Featured image: BTS’ Facebook

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Txt and Jonas Brothers’ Collaboration ‘Do It Like That’ Sweeps Itunes Charts

“Do It Like That,” the much-anticipated collaboration between K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) and American band Jonas Brothers, is off to a good start. 

Following its release on Friday, July 7, the track has dominated the iTunes charts across the world, placing no. 1 on iTunes Top Songs charts in at least 57 different regions, including the United States, France, Mexico, and Indonesia. 

Meanwhile, it landed on the second spot in the United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. 

Describing the single as “the summer song of 2023,” Soobin said that “Do It Like That” is an “exciting song that helps [fans] beat the heat.”

Yeonjun also told Korean entertainment website Soompi that he’s in disbelief that their group has collaborated with Jonas Brothers, especially that he grew up listening to the American band’s music. 

In an exclusive interview with PEOPLE, Taehyun shared that he’s hoping that they’d have another opportunity to collaborate with Jonas Brothers again. 

“Jonas Brothers were just as cool off-screen as they are on-screen. We would love to perform on stage with them in the future,” he said. 

“Do It Like That,” the first collaboration between Jonas Brothers and TXT, was produced by American singer-songwriter, OneRepublic frontman Ryan Tedder. 

Prior to the release of the single, Joe Jonas also expressed his excitement in working with the K-pop act. “So pumped to be working with TXT! When [Ryan Tedder] brought us together for ‘Do It Like That,’ we immediately said yes,” he tweeted. 

Joe, together with his brothers Kevin and Nick, also went on full K-pop mode as they promoted the track, and even released idol-inspired concept photos. 

Meanwhile, TXT will also be releasing their documentary Our Lost Summer on Disney+ on July 28. 

Composed of Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Huening Kai, TXT is known for songs “Good Boy Gone Bad,” “Crown,” “Blue Hour,” and “Anti-Romantic.” 

Featured image: HYBE LABELS’ YouTube

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K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES SUPER JUNIOR

Super Junior’s 2023 Fan Party in Manila: More Fan Benefits and Exciting Lineup

Attention, global E.L.F.s! The 2023 Super Junior Fan Party in Manila is gearing up to be more than a night of music and fun. Scheduled for Friday, July 21 at the Araneta Coliseum, the event has added to its fan benefits, making it an unmissable opportunity for fans.

In an exciting update, 200 lucky fans will have the chance to participate in a group photo with Super Junior (10 fans per group photo). Additionally, eight winners will receive a signed Polaroid from a random group member. VIP Standing and VIP Seated ticket holders will receive a VIP ID and Lanyard, and ten winners will get a signed poster. But the benefits don’t stop there. All attendees of the Fan Party in Manila will receive an official poster and a photocard of a random member.

The Fan Party comes seven months after the successful Super Show 9 last December 2022. Unlike a standard fan meeting, a fan party offers a more intimate and relaxed concert party atmosphere, catering to the Hallyu Kings‘ global fanbase.

Fans can expect a thrilling lineup of more than 10 amazing performances, fun games, interesting talk segments, and an encore. The two-hour show promises to keep the audience entertained, making it impossible for fans to stay seated. Moreover, the fan party will feature new performances of songs that were not included in the past Super Show setlists.

Super Junior held a sold-out fan party in Macau with eight members: Donghae, Eunhyuk, maknae Kyuhyun, Leeteuk, Ryeowook, Shindong, Siwon, and Yesung. The Manila leg is highly anticipated as it will be their last performance in 2023 featuring all eight members. Fans can look forward to experiencing the beautiful highlights in the photos the organizers released.

Tickets for the 2023 Super Junior Fan Party in Manila are now available at TicketNet.com.ph and TicketNet outlets nationwide. Fans can check out Applewood and Wilbros Live on social media for more information.

The 2023 Super Junior Fan Party in Manila promises to be a memorable event, offering fans the chance to see their favorite artists perform live and enjoy a range of exclusive benefits. With an exciting lineup and enhanced fan benefits, this event is set to be a highlight of the year for the global E.L.F. community.

(Featured Image: Super Junior ensured E.L.F.’s had the time of their life at the Macau leg of the Fan Party. Source: Wilbros Live)

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