Author: Kpop News Writer

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Hyolyn Teases August Comeback with First ‘Wait’ Teasers

Hyolyn has set the stage for her summer comeback with the release of her first concept photos for “Wait.” Scheduled for August 12 at 6 p.m. KST, her long-awaited return promises to captivate fans who have been eagerly anticipating her latest music.

Solo Career

Hyolyn made her solo debut on November 26, 2013, with the album “Love & Hate”. The album contained double title tracks, “Lonely” and “One Way Love”, featuring Korean rappers Mad Clown, Block B’s Zico, Dok2, and Geeks’ Lil Boi. Both singles saw success, with “One Way Love” winning first place on several music shows.

Awards and Nominations

Hyolyn has received numerous awards and nominations for her music, including the “Best Female Solo Singer” award at the 2022 Brand of the Year Awards and the “MuBeat Global Choice Award” at the 2022 Gaon Chart Music Awards. She has also been nominated for “Artist of the Year” and “Best Female Artist” at the 2014 Mnet Asian Music Awards.

Apart from her musical endeavors, Hyolyn has explored additional avenues in entertainment. She has delved into acting, appearing in notable productions such as the KBS drama “Dream High Season 2” and the film “The Little Prince”. Hyolyn’s versatility extends to music variety shows as well, where she has showcased her talents on programs like “I Am a Singer” and “Unpretty Rapstar”. These ventures highlight her multifaceted abilities beyond singing, demonstrating her versatility and willingness to explore different facets of the entertainment industry.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V to Host ‘Artspace: Type 1’ Exhibition for Photobook

HYBE has unveiled exciting plans to commemorate the release of Kim Taehyung’s (V of BTS) upcoming photobook titled “TYPE 1” with a global exhibition titled “ARTSPACE: TYPE 1.” This special exhibition is designed to immerse visitors in Taehyung’s distinctive style and showcase moments of relaxation, which serve as the central theme of his photobook.

“ARTSPACE: TYPE 1” promises a multi-faceted experience with various zones dedicated to exhibition and interactive areas. These spaces are intricately designed to mirror the chapters and flow of the photobook, offering fans and visitors a chance to intimately connect with Taehyung’s captured moments.

Scheduled to tour several cities worldwide from July to August, the exhibition will kick off at Platform-L in Seoul, South Korea, from July 12 to July 21. Subsequent stops include EmQuartier in Bangkok, Thailand, Breeze Nan Shan in Taipei, Taiwan, Metropolis at Metrotown in Vancouver, Canada, and Edgemar in Los Angeles, USA, among others. The tour concludes at 9th SyBuilding in Tokyo, Japan, from July 21 to August 29.

To heighten anticipation, Concept Posters #1 and #2 for the ‘TYPE 1’ photobook have already been unveiled. These previews offer glimpses into the aesthetic and mood of the photobook, setting the stage for what fans can expect.

The ‘TYPE 1’ photobook is available for purchase on Weverse Shop and through retailers like Cokodive, ensuring that fans worldwide can immerse themselves in Taehyung’s artistry and aesthetic vision.

With “ARTSPACE: TYPE 1,” HYBE and Kim Taehyung invite fans into a unique journey through art and personal expression, promising an unforgettable experience that celebrates creativity and connection across borders. As anticipation builds, fans eagerly await the opportunity to explore and celebrate Taehyung’s artistic journey firsthand at these global exhibitions.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura Performs AKB48 Song at Japanese Fan Meeting

Sakura’s iconic song “Yume de Kiss me!” was a highlight at LE SSERAFIM’s first fan meeting in Japan. Titled LE SSERAFIM FAN MEETING ‘FEARNADA’ 2024 S/S – JAPAN, the event took place at the Kobe World Memorial Hall on June 29 and 30. The fan meeting featured a wide range of activities that kept fans entertained for almost two hours.

The fan meeting saw the girl group’s five members—Hong Eunchae, Huh Yunjin, Kazuha, Kim Chaewon, and Sakura herself—acting as superheroes out to fix problems faced by their fans, FEARNOT. Each member got a chance to showcase their unique talents, and Sakura’s performance of “Yume de Kiss me!” stood out as a special moment.

@.lliza_ssi

“Yume de Kiss Me” 2024 version #sakura #miyawakisakura #miyawakisakuralesserafim #ffyypp #ffyypp

♬ Perfect Night – LE SSERAFIM

Synonymous with Sakura

“Yume de Kiss me!” is a solo song from AKB48’s Team A 7th Stage “M.T. ni Sasagu” setlist. It was one of many stages Sakura and the other members of AKB48’s Team A would perform at their theater, located in the Don Quijote building in Akihabara, Tokyo. Written by Yasushi Akimoto (who also wrote IZ*ONE’s Japanese songs), composed by Rie, and arranged by Ikuta Machine, the song has become synonymous with Sakura among AKB48 fans, as she was the first to perform it.

This isn’t the first time LE SSERAFIM has brought back “Yume de Kiss me!” at a fan meeting. On March 19, at their FEARNADA 2023 fan meeting at the Olympic Park in Seoul, the other members surprised Sakura with a performance of the song on her 25th birthday. They also presented her with a cake and tiara.

@48timee

Beberapa waktu lalu Le Sserafim melaksanakan fanmeet, dalam event itu juga turut dirayakan milad Sakura. Sakura dan member Le Sserafim menyanyikan lagu “Yume de Kiss Me” yang mana pernah dinyanyikan Sakura saat menjadi member HKT48 tahun 2016 silam. | #hkt48 #lesserafim #sakurahkt48 #sakuralesserafim #yumedekissme #miyawakisakura

♬ suara asli – It’s Time For 48Group – It’s Time For 48Group

Improved vocals

Overall, the fan meeting saw LE SSERAFIM perform ten songs, including hits like “Smart,” “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife” and “EASY.” They also performed Japan-specific tracks like “Choices” from their first Japanese single FEARLESS. Additionally, they thrilled fans with renditions of “1-800-hot-n-fun” and “Jewelry (Prod. Imase),” which they performed in Japan for the first time.

It was during the game segment that Sakura, backed by Hong Eunchae and Kazuha, got up to perform “Yume de Kiss me!” for the crowd. Fans noted that the recording she danced to was different from previous versions of the song. However, they couldn’t put their finger on why. It wasn’t until later, during a live broadcast after the show, that the group revealed Sakura re-recorded the song. Fans praised her for her improved vocals.


Following Kobe and two performances in Nagoya, the tour will continue on July 13-15 at Pia Arena MM in Kanagawa, and July 30-31 at Marine Messe Fukuoka Hall A. Hopefully, Sakura keeps performing “Yume de Kiss me!” at every stop! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The song will forever be associated with Sakura. Source: X/@sakura_chart.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jungkook and Jimin’s Travel Show ‘Are You Sure?!’ to Air in August

Jimin and Jungkook from BTS are set to star in a travel reality show called Are You Sure?! It will premiere on Disney+ this August.

The eight-part series was filmed in early 2023, before the K-pop superstars joined the South Korean military under the dongbanipdae or buddy system. It follows them as they visit three iconic destinations in different parts of the world. According to a press release, Are You Sure?! promises to take audiences on a fun journey with the two as they “eat, shop, cook, camp, canoe, swim and road trip together.”

The show will give fans an in-depth look at Jimin and Jungkook’s close friendship and chemistry as they bond over unforgettable experiences, explore different cultures, and enjoy various activities and local cuisines.

When will ‘Are You Sure?!’ air?

Before the official announcement, BTS’s X account posted a teaser video featuring photos of Jimin and Jungkook engaging in activities like kayaking, motorcycle riding, and swimming. The last time he appeared on Suchwita, the YouTube talk show hosted by fellow BTS member SUGA, Jungkook mentioned that he and Jimin had talked about the possibility of doing something together. 

“On a shoot with Jimin ages ago, he said it might be fun to do a travel variety show with me, and I agreed,” the golden maknae recalled. “But it didn’t go anywhere after that. Then suddenly, they set up a shoot.”

Episodes 1 and 2 of Are You Sure?! will be available on August 8, with new episodes dropping every Thursday until September 19. The show will see the duo experience summer in the USA, autumn in Jeju, South Korea, and winter in Sapporo, Japan. 

Disney+’s growing BTS content library

Are You Sure?! is the newest addition to Disney+’s growing BTS content library. This collection already includes BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star, an eight-part docuseries covering the band’s first 10 years, and BTS: Permission to Dance On Stage – LA, a 4K concert film of BTS’s performance at Los Angeles’s Sofi Stadium in November 2021.

Other shows featuring the BTS members on Disney+ include SUGA: Road to D-DAY, a documentary following SUGA as he goes to Seoul, Tokyo, Las Vegas, and beyond while working on his latest album D-DAY; j-hope IN THE BOX, a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of j-hope’s solo album Jack in the Box; and IN THE SOOP: Friendcation, a travel reality show featuring BTS’s V and other stars. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin and Jungkook stans have been waiting for this show to air ever since Jungkook teased it on ‘Suchwita.’ Source: X/@bts_bighit.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Four B.A.P Members Set for Comeback as BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON

Four members of the iconic boy group B.A.P are making a highly anticipated return to the music scene.

According to MA Entertainment, Bang Yong-guk, Jung Dae-hyun, Yoo Young-jae, and Moon Jong-up will make a comeback in August. They will reunite under the name BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON. This exciting news was shared alongside a teaser for a documentary featuring all four members. The teaser showed the members dressed all in black, walking towards chairs in a studio. This, along with close-up shots of their faces, added to the intrigue surrounding their comeback.

‘Man on the moon’ Documentary Teaser (ENG/CHN/JPN)

In the teaser, the members expressed their excitement about reuniting with a powerful statement: “To all the fans who’ve been waiting, we’re finally back together. As much as you’ve supported us all this time, we’ll show you how much we’ve grown musically. We hope you’re looking forward to it. We’ll see you soon.” The first two episodes of the documentary have since dropped on MA Entertainment’s YouTube channel. 

Following the announcement, the agency shared more details about the group’s comeback on social media. These updates include the title of their first album, CURTAIN CALL, and the promotional schedule.

BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON to hold fan concert

BANG&JUNG&YOO&MOON have also released a character animation video for their pre-release track “Farewell.” The video begins with animated versions of Bang Yong-guk, Jung Dae-hyun, Yoo Young-jae, and Moon Jong-up leaving Earth with their luggage. It ends with all four touching down on the planet MATO and looking back at Earth.

Soon, the group will reveal the full tracklist of their new album and pre-release the song “Farewell” on July 15. They also announced plans for a fan concert on August 17 and 18 to coincide with the album’s release.

‘CURTAIN CALL’ MATO Animation

Bang Yong-guk, Jung Dae-hyun, Yoo Young-jae, and Moon Jong-up originally debuted as part of B.A.P in 2012 with the hit single “WARRIOR.” They quickly gained a large following thanks to other popular tracks like “CRASH,” “ONE SHOT,” and “No Mercy.” 

However, in 2014, a contract dispute with their original agency, TS Entertainment, led to a hiatus that lasted over a year. B.A.P concluded their activities in 2017 with their eighth single “EGO” and officially disbanded in 2019. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: All four opened up about this comeback in the first two episodes of their new documentary. Source: X/@maenter1234.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Byeon Woo Seok Personally Handed Out Roses at Manila Press Conference

Korean actor Byeon Woo Seok, star of the drama Lovely Runner, delighted the Philippine media by handing out yellow roses at a press conference on June 21. This sweet gesture took place at Shangri-La The Fort. During the event, the actor promoted his 2024 Byeon Woo Seok Asia Fan Meeting Tour: Summer Letter in Manila, which was scheduled for the following day at the New Frontier Theater in Cubao, Quezon City.

The press conference, hosted by Kring Kim and organized by PULP Live World, began at 4:00 PM. in the hotel’s Bonifacio Hall. Byeon Woo Seok emerged with a bunch of yellow roses and personally distributed them to each reporter. All were pleasantly surprised and thrilled. Each yellow rose was accompanied by a photo of the actor and a note that read, “Thank you for loving Sunjae. Maraming salamat po (Thank you very much). From Byeon Woo Seok.”

The color yellow featured prominently in Lovely Runner, where Byeon Woo Seok played Ryu Sun Jae alongside Kim Hye Yoon as Im Sol, whose iconic umbrella was yellow.

Byeon Woo Seok on his sudden popularity

During the press conference, Byeon Woo Seok expressed his excitement about being in the Philippines for the first time. “Well, it’s so nice to finally be here in the Philippines. And when I arrived at the airport yesterday, there were so many fans who welcomed me. I was very excited and thrilled. I’m actually looking forward to all of it. Yes, it’s my first time here, but I’m very happy with everything I’m seeing. Just the fact that I get to go to different places is already very exciting. But most of all, I get to experience the culture of these different countries. It’s something that truly awakens my mind,” he said via a translator.

Reflecting on his role in Lovely Runner, he said, “I’m very grateful that you all appreciate me, remember me, and show your love for me as Sun Jae. As an actor, I think it’s one of my greatest achievements that you liked the character I portrayed. So for my future projects, I’d appreciate and love it if you would also fall in love with the new character I will be acting as.”

Woo Seok, aminadong na-overwhelm sa suporta ng Pinoy fans nang salubungin siya sa sa… | 24 Oras

Big surprise

“I’m still not used to the sudden popularity I’m experiencing,” he added. “Everything about my day-to-day life is actually a big surprise. Like yesterday, when I was at the airport, I saw a huge crowd. That in itself was already amazing and amusing for me, and just being in front of you at a press conference is like a dream come true. Until now, I’m still not used to this attention. It truly feels like a dream.”

Byeon Woo Seok started out as a model. His popularity soared after starring in Lovely Runner. He arrived in Manila last June 20, where throngs of fans showed up at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport to catch a glimpse of him. The fan meeting itself was a smashing success, with fans filling up every seat in the New Frontier Theater. Those who couldn’t get tickets to the show gathered outside the venue, hoping to see him. Their patience was rewarded as he rolled down his car windows and waved to the crowd before leaving. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Wouldn’t you love to receive one of these from Byeon Woo Seok? Source: X/@sweetboywoo.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jimin Reveals What Inspired ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band’

BTS’s Jimin recently released a behind-the-scenes video on the BANGTANTV YouTube channel detailing what went into the filming of the track video for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band.” The single, which debuted on June 28, is the first taste ARMYs got of Jimin’s upcoming second solo album, MUSE, which is scheduled to drop on July 19. In the Track Video Behind, the K-pop phenomenon opened up about what inspired “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco).” 

“It’s actually the first song we worked on,” he revealed. “It came together effortlessly while I had the time of my life in America. We started it because we wanted to capture the happy feeling after we finished the FACE album. It’s the song I liked the most and this is exactly how I wanted you to see it. I’m so happy that it came out exactly as I imagined.”

“From the beginning, I made this song thinking about things you’d like,” he added, addressing the fans. “How can I show you the sides of us that you love the most? This dance, set, and song are the product of that. I hope you can love us exactly as we are. Please love and enjoy it.”

지민 (Jimin) ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ Official Track Video

Jimin brought laughter to the set

During the shoot, Jimin went to great lengths to keep the atmosphere joyful and playful, just like the song. He encouraged the young dancers they cast in the video, telling them they were the most important part of the shoot and that they should feel free to joke around. He wanted them to relax and have fun on set. Later, Jimin expressed delight when he found out one of them was from his hometown of Busan as well.

Jimin brought laughter to the set when he mimicked bandmate Jungkook’s choreography for “Standing Next to You” while filming scenes for the “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” Track Video.

지민 (Jimin) ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ Track Video Behind

The Track Video for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band” sees Loco dancing alongside Jimin and the rest of the crew towards the end. In the Track Video Behind, Jimin revealed that it was his idea to bring Loco out during the last chorus. The shoot ended with Loco giving him a bouquet of flowers while everyone present applauded. Jimin then leaves a heartfelt message for his fans, promising to return safely from his military service. 

Jimin recorded the entire MUSE album and its associated content before enlisting in the South Korean military. He did so under the dongbanipdae or buddy system alongside Jungkook. The seven-song LP is a follow up to his first solo album FACE, and it contains seven tracks: “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco),” the intro song “Rebirth,” “Interlude: Showtime,” “Slow Dance (featuring Sofia Carson),” “Be Mine,” “Who,” and “Closer Than This,” which dropped in December. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin filmed the track video and its behind video before enlisting. Source: Weverse.

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FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘The Auditors’ Debuts Pilot Episode at Top of Ratings

On July 6, the highly anticipated drama “The Auditors,” starring Shin Ha Kyun and Lee Jung Ha, premiered to top ratings. According to Nielsen Korea, the first episode scored an average nationwide rating of 3.5%, placing it first in its time slot across all cable channels.

This success comes as SBS’s “Connection” concluded with its highest viewership ratings ever, achieving an average nationwide rating of 14.2%. “Connection” also became the most-watched program of the week among viewers aged 20 to 49, earning an average rating of 4.8%. Meanwhile, MBC’s two-part drama “The Pork Cutlets,” airing at the same time, ended with a respectable nationwide average of 3.3%. JTBC’s “Miss Night and Day,” which hit a peak last Sunday, saw a dip to an average nationwide rating of 5.7% for its latest episode.

Episode 1 recap

The pilot episode of “The Auditors” captivated audiences with a gripping storyline. Shin Cha Il, played by Shin Ha Kyun, begins as the new audit team leader at JU Construction and immediately investigates a tower crane accident at the company’s construction site. The episode concluded with a tense encounter between Shin Cha Il and JU Construction’s vice president, Hwang Dae Woong, portrayed by Jin Goo.

Hwang Dae Woong tries to cover up the accident by labelling it a natural disaster, knowing that any corruption uncovered would implicate him. Undeterred, Shin Cha Il proceeds with his investigation despite Hwang Dae Woong’s attempts to thwart him. Newly released stills for the second episode hint at further confrontations as Shin Cha Il meets with JU Construction president Hwang Se Woong, a displeased Hwang Dae Woong, and Seo Gil Pyo to discuss his findings.

The promising debut of “The Auditors” has set the stage for a thrilling series, drawing viewers into its complex narrative and strong performances. It airs every Saturday and Sunday, 9:20 PM KST on tvN, and is expected to conclude at 12 episodes.

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Baekho Shows off Physique at Waterbomb Seoul 2024

Baekho impresses fans with his performance and sculpted physique at the Waterbomb Seoul 2024

Baekho recently made a splash at the Waterbomb Seoul 2024, capturing attention with his stunning appearance and electrifying performance. The former NU’EST member showcased his impressive physique while delivering an energetic set alongside his backup dancers, leaving fans and netizens in awe.

Photos and videos of Baekho’s performance quickly went viral, amassing thousands of views and numerous compliments. Fans took to social media to express their admiration, with comments like, “It’s crazy how much you must have to take care of your body to look like that” and “He’s the perfect guest performer for Waterbomb.” One fan even remarked, “He looks more like a sculpture than a human body.”

@tora3701

240705 워터밤 서울 워터밤 안에서♥️ #백호 #강동호 #BAEKHO #KANGDONGHO #WATERBOMBSEOUL

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – 하얀호랑이 – 하얀호랑이

Baekho’s presence wasn’t the only highlight of the festival. Day 1 of Waterbomb Seoul 2024 featured captivating performances from ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo and MAMAMOO’s Hwasa. Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman made surprise appearances, adding an extra layer of excitement.

Day 2 continued the momentum with performances by Choi Min Ho, Jay Park, GOT7’s Yugyeom, and KISS OF LIFE. They set the stage on fire with some of their hit songs. The festival concluded on Day 3 with performances from K-pop stars like Nayeon, WayV, BIBI, and SHINee’s Taemin.

Despite the event’s overall success, it sparked a debate among fans about existing double standards in the industry. Nevertheless, Baekho’s memorable appearance at the Waterbomb Seoul Festival has solidified his status as a top performer, earning him admiration and respect from fans worldwide.

What is the Waterbomb Festival?

The Waterbomb Festival in Seoul is one of the city’s most anticipated summer events, blending high-energy music performances with thrilling water fights. Held annually, the festival attracts massive crowds eager to see top K-pop artists and DJs.

Participants come armed with water guns and cannons, ready for exhilarating battles that provide a much-needed respite from the summer heat. The combination of live music and water activities creates a vibrant and refreshing atmosphere, making it a standout event on Seoul’s summer calendar.

Beyond the main attractions of water fights and live performances, the Waterbomb Festival offers a variety of other activities to keep attendees entertained. Numerous food stalls and beverage stands ensure festival-goers have plenty of options to stay refreshed and energized throughout the day. The festival’s mix of music, water games, and lively festival vibes has made it a must-attend event for locals and tourists. It’s one of the most highly anticipated summer events.

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K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

‘EXchange 3’ Song Da Hye and Seo Dong Jin Back Together

The couple confirmed their rekindled romance, delighting fans with the news on social media

TVING-original reality series “EXchange” season 3 cast members Song Da Hye and Seo Dong Jin are officially back together. The couple, known for their long history and Song Da Hye’s time in the girl group BESTie, delighted fans with their announcement on social media.

On July 4th, Seo Dong Jin shared the news on his Instagram, saying, “It took us a while, but we will love each other more as it took longer!”

Song Da Hye echoed her sentiments in her post, stating, “Hello! This is Dahye. There were many thoughts about our relationship right after the show, and it was difficult to confirm until recently, but now I can gladly announce that we are in a happy relationship. (We aren’t getting married yet, haha) Please continue to show support and love <3”

The couple’s reunion comes three months after the show ended, surprising viewers who had been invested in their previous 13-year-long relationship. Despite not rekindling their romance on the show, their bond remained strong.

How did the couple start their 13-year-long romance?

Song Da Hye and Seo Dong Jin met as teens aspiring to be K-pop idols. They were trainees at the same company but were let go after their relationship was discovered. Song Da Hye later joined a different company and debuted with BESTie, while Seo Dong Jin supported her by acting as a manager during some of the group’s schedules.

Their relationship experienced several short breakups: from February 2010 through July 2014, August 2014 through September 2018, and December 2018 through June 2023. Their journey has been a testament to their enduring love and commitment.

Fans are thrilled to see Song Da Hye and Seo Dong Jin back together and look forward to their future endeavors, both personally and professionally.

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