Author: Kpop News Writer

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LE SSERAFIM To Take Their Music Worldwide with Debut International Tour in August

K-pop sensation LE SSERAFIM has officially announced their highly-anticipated global tour, titled “Flame Rises,” during a recent press conference. The tour will kick off with a thrilling two-day concert in Seoul on August 12-13, followed by captivating performances in Nagoya, Tokyo, and Osaka in Japan. 

Fans can also look forward to the group’s upcoming visits to Hong Kong, Jakarta, and Bangkok in September and October.

In addition to their tour announcement, the gir group revealed that they will be releasing their second single in Japan, titled “Unforgiven,” on August 23. The single will feature the Japanese-language version of the group’s hit track “Unforgiven,” originally from their debut studio album. 

 

The album has achieved significant success, reaching No. 166 on the prestigious Billboard 200 chart and maintaining its presence for an impressive seven consecutive weeks since its debut at No. 6.

LE SSERAFIM  continues to captivate global audiences with their powerful music and dynamic performances, solidifying their position as one of the industry’s most promising rising stars.

Featured Photo Credit: LE SSERAFIM OFFICIAL Twitter Japan

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Highlight’s Son Dongwoon Announces Marriage to Non-Celebrity Girlfriend

Son Dongwoon, a member of the K-pop boy band Highlight (formerly BEAST), surprised fans with the announcement of his upcoming marriage. On June 27, the 32-year-old artist took to Instagram to share the news that he will tie the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend in September.

In a heartfelt handwritten letter, Dongwoon expressed his nervousness and caution in sharing this news, fully aware that it may surprise his fans. He expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support he has received throughout his career, acknowledging that he has grown with the love and care bestowed upon him by his fans.

The wedding ceremony will be private, limited to only close family members and acquaintances, as his fiancée is not involved in the entertainment industry. Dongwoon emphasized his desire for a quiet, intimate celebration with his loved ones.

Highlight’s agency, Around Us Entertainment, also released a statement confirming Dongwoon’s marriage plans. They supported his decision and revealed that despite the upcoming milestone, Dongwoon intends to continue his activities as a member of Highlight, pursuing his passion as a singer-songwriter and entertainer.

 

While specific details regarding the wedding date and location were not disclosed to respect the privacy of the couple and their families, the agency urged fans to offer warm congratulations and blessings to Dongwoon and his future spouse as they embark on this new chapter in their lives.

 

With this announcement, Dongwoon joins the list of K-pop idols who have taken the step of marriage, including Bobby from iKON, Chen from EXO, Taeyang from Big Bang, and Choi Min-hwan from FT Island. Fans eagerly await Dongwoon’s future endeavors as he continues to shine both as an artist and a married individual.

Highlight, which debuted in 2009, consists of members Yoon Doo-joon, Yang Yo-seob, Lee Gi-kwang, and Son Dongwoon.

Congratulations, Maknae Dongwoon!

Featured Image Credit: Official HIGHLIGHT

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Taeyeon from Girls’ Generation to Hold Solo Concert in the Philippines

Exciting news for Filipino fans!

Taeyeon, the leader and main vocalist of K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation, is set to captivate audiences with her highly-anticipated solo concert in the Philippines this July.

DNM Entertainment, the concert organizers, took to their official social media platforms to announce that the renowned queen of vocals will bring her “The ODD Of Love” concert tour to the country.

 

The concert is scheduled at the prestigious Smart Araneta Coliseum on July 30, 2023. Ticket prices for this spectacular event range from P3,000 to P12,000. DNM Entertainment also revealed that ticket sales will commence on July 16, 2023, at 2 p.m. via TicketNet.

This marks Taeyeon’s second visit to the Philippines in 2023, following her remarkable performance at the Manila Ultimate Pop Universe – K-Verse concert.

Known for her extraordinary vocal range, Taeyeon has established herself as one of the most talented singers in the Korean music industry. As a member of Girls’ Generation and a successful soloist, she has garnered immense praise and recognition. Her songs, including “INVU,” “Fine,” “Weekend,” “Can’t Control Myself,” “Four Seasons,” and many others, have resonated with fans worldwide.

If you’re from the Philippines, don’t miss this incredible opportunity to witness Taeyeon’s live performance and experience her undeniable talent firsthand!

Featured Image Credit: SMTOWN Official INVU MV

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MAMAMOO’s Hwasa Departs from RBW Agency, Fuels Speculation of Joining P Nation

RBW, the agency representing K-pop group MAMAMOO, announced on June 27th that Hwasa would be parting ways with them. While the official statement did not disclose the reason for the departure, rumors suggest Hwasa might be joining P Nation, the agency founded by renowned singer PSY.

In the statement released by RBW, they expressed gratitude to fans for their continuous support and love for MAMAMOO. The agency revealed that Hwasa’s exclusive contract recently expired, and after careful discussions, both parties mutually decided to conclude their journey together. RBW assured fans that they would continue to support the individual and group activities of MAMAMOO, emphasizing the importance of MOOMOOs’ support during this transition.

Fans had already started speculating about Hwasa’s departure when reports emerged that her contract with RBW would end in June. The news of her potential move to P Nation has sparked further excitement and anticipation among supporters.

Hwasa had previously followed a solo career after MAMAMOO. As Hwasa embarks on new endeavors in diverse fields, fans eagerly await further updates and express their unwavering support for her future endeavors.

We wish you the best, Hwasa!

Featured Image Credit: HWASA Official Instagram

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK’s Jisoo’s Solo Debut MV “FLOWER” Hits 300 Million Views

The solo debut of BLACKPINK’s Jisoo continues to make waves as her music video for the track “FLOWER” surpasses 300 million views on YouTube. The milestone was achieved on June 27 at approximately 6:20 p.m. KST, marking a significant achievement for Jisoo as a solo artist.

Released on March 31 at 1 p.m. KST, the “FLOWER” music video took just over 88 days and five hours to reach the impressive milestone. Notably, it is the only K-pop music video released in 2023 to achieve this feat.

 

Fans and the music industry alike have been captivated by Jisoo’s solo debut, and the overwhelming response is evident in the rapid rise of views on her music video. With this accomplishment, Jisoo solidifies her position as a powerhouse artist in the K-pop industry.

https://twitter.com/jisooaddiction/status/1671852078929690625?s=20

Congratulations to Jisoo on this remarkable achievement!

Relive the enchanting visuals and mesmerizing performance of “FLOWER” by watching the music video:

Featured Image Credit: BLACKPINK Official Twitter

Categories
K-DRAMA

BIGBANG’s T.O.P, IZ*ONE’s Jo Yuri Join Squid Game Season 2

Netflix reveals new cast members for 'Squid Game' season 2. Photo from Netflix's Twitter

The stakes are higher as Netflix unveiled on Thursday, June 29 the additional actors joining the star-studded cast of the second season of Squid Game. 

Cho Seung-hyun, also known as T.O.P, and Jo Yuri are among the confirmed cast members. T.O.P was a former member of the K-pop boy group BIGBANG while Yuri was part of the Korean-Japanese temporary girl group IZ*ONE. 

The new additions also include Sweet Home stars Park Gyu-young and Lee Jin-uk, D.P. actress Won Ji-an, Roh Jae-won from Ditto, Itaewon Class actor Lee David, and Kang Ae-shim of Tell Me What You Saw. 

 

However, additional details about their characters have yet to be disclosed. 

They will be joining earlier announced cast members Yim Si-wan, Kang Ha-neul, Park Sung-hoon, and Yang Dong-guen. In the cast announcement video, the four actors were introduced as new players, but detailed descriptions of their roles are still undisclosed. 

Only Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-jun, and Gong Yoo were the familiar faces from the first season who are confirmed to reprise their roles for the second installment. 

Byung-hun will be returning as The Frontman, Jung-jae as Gi-hun, and Ha-jun as the police detective Jun-ho. 

Following the announcement on the new cast members, Netflix also released photos of the actors during a table reading session for the dystopian-thriller series. 

 

The Emmy Award-winning show, which premiered in September 2021, follows hundreds of contestants compete for cash in various childhood games with deadly consequences. 

The second season of Squid Game is expected to premiere in 2024, but a final release date has yet to be announced.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN Unveils Highly Anticipated Japanese Album ‘ALWAYS YOURS’

SEVENTEEN, the beloved K-pop boy band, continues to solidify their status as a global sensation, captivating audiences in Japan with their immense popularity. 

They recently made a significant announcement regarding releasing their highly anticipated first-ever Japanese best album, “ALWAYS YOURS.”

 

As revealed through a press release on SEVENTEEN Japan’s official website, the album is scheduled to be unleashed on July 23, 2023. It will encompass a compilation of all the group’s Japanese original songs, Japanese versions of their Korean tracks, and two brand-new Japanese original songs, ensuring a delightful musical experience for their dedicated fanbase, known as Carats.

Carats can anticipate hearing their favorite Japanese tracks such as “Fallin’ Flower,” “24H,” “Call Call Call!,” “Happy Ending,” “Not Alone,” “Power of Love,” and “DREAM” consolidated into one album. 

Additionally, the album will feature Japanese renditions of SEVENTEEN’s hit songs, including “HIGHLIGHT,” “Lean on Me,” “20,” “LOVE LETTER,” and “Oh My!” to name a few.

In their unwavering dedication to their Carats worldwide, SEVENTEEN will also present two brand-new Japanese original songs exclusively crafted for this album.

Since their Japanese debut on May 30, 2018, SEVENTEEN has amassed many accolades and a devoted fanbase. Their comebacks have consistently garnered immense support from their Japanese Carats, prompting the group to reciprocate the love by delivering exhilarating live performances.

Recently, the boy band kicked off their “SEVENTEEN 2023 JAPAN FAN MEETING ‘LOVE'” at the Kyocera Dome in Osaka and the Tokyo Dome in Tokyo, enthralling audiences with their electrifying stage presence. 

 

Before releasing their upcoming Japanese album “ALWAYS YOURS,” SEVENTEEN will treat their Korean Carats to a memorable two-day concert at the Gocheok Sky Dome on July 21 and July 22, 2023.

Congratulations to SEVENTEEN, and may their musical journey continue to flourish!

Categories
VARIETY

Blue Dragon Series Awards 2023: K-pop Idols Shine Among Star-Studded Nominations

The highly anticipated Blue Dragon Series Awards 2023 will take place in July next month, honoring outstanding achievements in the Korean entertainment industry. It’s also now home to notable K-pop powerhouses, who now own the camera with their acting skills.

This year’s nominations feature a diverse lineup of talent, including established veterans and rising K-pop stars. Notably, the award ceremony will be the first to be exclusively streamed digitally, highlighting the impact of streaming platforms on the industry.

 

After meticulous deliberations and surveys, the entertainment sector of Sports Chosun has unveiled the nominees for the upcoming event. Eligible shows for consideration were released on streaming platforms between May 1, 2022, and May 31, 2023.

Industry Stars In The Making 

The Best Rookie Actor category presents a promising competition, with soloist Park Jihoon receiving acclaim for his role in Weak Hero Class 1.

ASTRO’s Cha Eunwoo equally deserves attention, whose nomination has sparked fan discussion due to his extensive experience as an actor.

EXID’s Hani has mesmerized viewers with her compelling performance in Hit the Spot, earning her a nomination in the highly competitive Best Rookie Actress category. In the realm of variety series, WEi’s Kim Yo-han and GOT7’s BamBam compete for the Best Rookie Male Entertainer title. 

Meanwhile, the Best Female Entertainer category features an exciting clash between Girl’s Day’s Yura and Girls’ Generation’s Yuri. Additionally, KARA’s Heo Young-ji has been recognized for her talents and secured a spot in the Best Rookie Female Entertainer title nominations.

This highly anticipated event will take place on July 19, 2023, at 8:30 PM KST, where the industry’s finest will gather to celebrate Korean entertainment’s exceptional achievements and contributions.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

K-pop Star AleXa Takes a Stand Against “White Girl Idol” Label and Challenges Invalidation of Her Korean Heritage

In a recent livestream, Korean American K-pop soloist AleXa bravely addressed the derogatory labels thrown at her, such as “White girl idol,” and expressed her frustration over the invalidation of her Korean heritage.

During the livestream, AleXa shed light on the hate she has been receiving, emphasizing the need to recognize her as a half-Korean K-pop idol.

TikTok videos capturing her powerful message have been circulating online, with supporters condemning the racism and harm caused by disregarding a significant part of her identity.

@aitrooperofficial

PSA!!!!!! Alex growing up in America doesn’t make her white nor does it take away from the fact she is half korean. It’s such a racist and and harmful rhetoric to dismiss such a major part of her identity. @AleXa #kpop #alexa #alexakpop #alexazb #alexazblabel #zblabel #zanybros #alexchristine #produce48 #알렉사 #aitrooper #aitroopers #alexalive #tiktoklive #tiktoklivealexa #alexatiktoklive #fypシ #kpopfyp #psa #aitrooperofficial

♬ original sound – Charlotte ❤️🐇

 

Raising thought-provoking questions, AleXa questioned whether her American upbringing and mixed heritage made people treat her differently compared to other half-Korean idols, such as SEVENTEEN‘s Vernon and former Momoland member Nancy.

Despite her strong connection to her Korean roots, AleXa expressed disappointment in the constant bashing and the dismissal of her half-Korean identity. She pointed out that while there are now actual Caucasians in K-pop, it is unjust to label her solely as the “White girl idol.” Furthermore, she highlighted her mother’s struggles as an immigrant in America and how it shouldn’t be undermined.

@aitrooperofficial

It’s disrespectful how underrated her music is. She is one of the most unique KPOP soloists there is. @AleXa #kpop #alexa #alexakpop #alexazb #alexazblabel #zblabel #zanybros #alexchristine #produce48 #알렉사 #aitrooper #aitroopers #backinvogue #backinvoguealexa #alexabackinvogue #girlsgonevogue #alexagirlsgonevogue #juliette #juliettealexa #alexalive #tiktoklive #alexatiktoklive #tiktoklivealexa #fypシ #kpopfyp

♬ original sound – Charlotte ❤️🐇

 

AleXa’s powerful stance serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and respecting diverse identities within the K-pop industry. Her courage in speaking out against discrimination sheds light on the need for inclusivity and understanding in the global music community. She continues to invite fans to join her TikTok lives to talk about life and the industry:

Featured photo from AleXA Official

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Warner Music Korea Refutes Allegations of Attempting to Poach K-pop Sensation Fifty Fifty

Warner Music Korea has firmly denied the allegations made by the agency of K-pop sensation Fifty Fifty regarding attempts to lure the group away from their current label.

Comprising four members, Fifty Fifty made their debut under the Korean label Attrakt in November of the previous year.

On June 26, Attrakt released an official statement accusing Warner Music Korea and a third party of trying to entice the girl band to leave their agency.

Attrakt stated, “We have discovered a situation in which an outsourcing company approached Warner Music Korea and offered to sell Fifty Fifty. We have gathered substantial evidence of an apparent illegal attempt to poach the members.”

In response to these allegations, Warner Music Korea issued a statement denying any involvement in the attempted poaching, as reported by Korea JoongAng Daily:

“First and foremost, Warner Music Korea is an overseas distributor for Fifty Fifty and has been working with them since April 1, 2023. Since signing the contract, we have been utilizing Warner Music Group’s capabilities and networks to enhance the achievements of Fifty Fifty and their agency. It is deeply regrettable that unfounded suspicions have been raised,” clarified Warner Music Korea.

The statement continued, “Warner Music Korea values the opinions of artists and their agencies. As a global distributor, we have consistently strived to contribute to their success, as evidenced by various accomplishments.”

Warner Music Korea expressed disappointment with Attrakt’s claims and conveyed regret over the situation.

Despite the unfortunate plagiarism allegations, Fifty Fifty has gained significant attention for their viral hit “Cupid,” which propelled them onto the Billboard Hot 100 and UK charts, making headlines worldwide. 

Featured photo from Fifty Fifty Official

Exit mobile version