Author: Kpop News Writer

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ENHYPEN’s Jake Posts Cover of Bazzi’s ‘I Don’t Think I’m Okay’ on YouTube

Jake

ENHYPEN’s Jake took to YouTube to share his heartfelt rendition of Bazzi’s “I Don’t Think I’m Okay.” This cover marks his first solo outing. Released on March 5, 2024, this cover not only showcases Jake‘s vocal prowess but also his deep emotional connection to the song’s themes.

[Cover] ENHYPEN JAKE – I Don’t Think I’m Okay (원곡 : Bazzi)

“I Don’t Think I’m Okay” is a poignant reflection on the importance of mental health awareness and the power of being open about one’s feelings. The song, part of a larger project by Bazzi that includes songs like “I Got You,” “Renee’s Song,” and “Young & Alive,” encourages listeners to talk openly about their mental health.

Jake initially planned to film the video for his cover outdoors, but he had only one day available for filming, and it turned out to be way too cold. That’s why he ended up filming it indoors. This, however, proved to be a blessing in disguise. The homey setting he went with made the video feel much more personal. Jake mentioned that Heeseung was the first to listen to the cover because he sought feedback from him. Heeseung, who always likes Jake’s voice, gave him numerous compliments, significantly boosting Jake’s confidence.

[Cover BEHIND] #ENHYPEN #JAKE 🎵 I Don’t Think I’m Okay (원곡 : Bazzi)

Jake’s cover quickly caught the attention of Bazzi himself, who praised the rendition on X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok. He loved Jake’s unique interpretation of the song.

Jake wants fans to take the song’s message to heart

Jake opened up about his reasons for covering the song on Weverse Live. “So before I chose this song, there were a couple of other options, right? And you know, I sang all of those other songs. The reason why I landed on this one is because, compared to the other songs, I felt like I could relate to it a little bit more.”

Jake, who told GQ Korea that he once opened up to his parents about going through a hard time mentally two or three years ago, said he wanted fans to take the song’s message to heart. “But you gotta listen to the last lyrics, which is ‘I don’t think I’m okay, but that’s okay.’ I think that’s a really important line because, you know, we all go through hard times. But it’s okay to sometimes not be okay. You gotta speak out loud; you gotta tell people about your feelings. That’s what I learned. You gotta talk about your feelings to people you trust.”

[MULTI SUB] ENHYPEN WEVERSE LIVE (2024.03.05) | JAKE LIVE

He ended the broadcast by thanking every single fan out there for their continued support. “Anyways, thank you guys for always supporting me. I’m so glad that I have someone like you guys to share things with, to talk about anything, really, even if it’s bad or good. You know, I’m so happy to have someone like you guys in my life, genuinely. Like, thank you guys for always being here.”

As of this writing, the video has earned 1,338,727 views. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Kudos to Jake for choosing a song about an important topic. Source: X/@baekwoniee.

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All You Need to Know About V’s New Digital Single ‘FRI(END)S’

Just six months after BTS’s V delighted fans with his debut solo album Layover, the “Slow Dancing” singer is preparing to release a new digital single titled “FRI(END)S.” V and his agency, BigHit Music, teased the track on social media before formally announcing it on March 3. They revealed not only the song’s title but also its release date of March 15 at 1:00 PM KST.

“FRI(END)S” combines elements of pop, R&B, and soul. It offers a relatable and witty take on romance. According to a press release from BigHit Music, “V’s digital single ‘FRI(END)S’ is a sweet ‘confession song’ that complements the pink spring. It starts off warmly like buds sprouting on a spring day and gradually intensifies with the flow of emotions.”

Fans can’t wait for the full version of the song

BigHit Music released the first teaser of “FRI(END)S” on BTS’s official SNS at 12:00 MN KST on March 10. The 35-second clip shows V grabbing leftover takeout from the fridge and eating it alone. It then cuts to a chaotic scene at a movie theater and another where V is all alone in a crowded diner, surrounded by happy couples. As the video consists of scenes from the “FRI(END)S” music video, it also includes a snippet of the song that plays towards the end of the video. The sweet melody, combined with V’s enchanting falsetto, leaves a deep impression. It heightens anticipation for the story V will tell with the full version of the song.

Both sets of concept photos released show V striking various poses all by himself. Fans can view the full set of concept photos on BTS’s Instagram. BigHit Music has promised more to come. This includes a “flash video” that captures the single’s overall mood. It’s scheduled for release on March 11 and will be followed by another music video teaser on March 12.

The song is written entirely in English

Adding to the anticipation, Riley McDonough, known for co-writing Joji’s “Glimpse of Us,” contributed to the lyrics of “FRI(END)S,” which are written entirely in English. The songwriter revealed his involvement in V’s upcoming release through his Instagram Stories. He even tagged the BTS member’s personal account. Connor McDonough, Riley’s older brother (and frequent collaborator), spread the word further by reposting his brother’s story on his own Instagram account.

Riley’s musical journey has evolved significantly over the years. Initially gaining recognition with the pop band Before You Exit, he has since focused on collaborating with different artists. His achievements underscore his knack for creating hits. “Glimpse of Us,” for example, not only hit No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100. It also dominated the Global and US Spotify charts. Riley’s songwriting resume includes contributions to tracks like “Cold As Ice” by Ava Max, “Go Down Together” by Dove Cameron and Khalid, “Red Flags” by Mimi Webb, and “Wonder Woman” by John Legend. His involvement in “FRI(END)S” suggests that V’s new single will benefit from Riley’s proven talent for crafting compelling music.

V hinted at the release of ‘FRI(END)S’

In September 2023, V released Layover, featuring singles such as “Love Me Again,” “Rainy Days,” and “Slow Dancing.” With all seven BTS members having joined the South Korean military, the group is expected to be on hiatus until 2025.

Before beginning his service, V hinted that fans can expect more content from him even as he serves in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army. “Within 18 months, I’ve prepared a lot of things. Please look forward to it,” V wrote in December 2023. “I’ll really miss you. I love you so much.” – K-Pop Life

Featured Image: We’ll know for sure what the song is about in a few days. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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Zack Tabudlo Reacts After ENHYPEN’s Ni-Ki Praises One of His Songs

ENHYPEN‘s Ni-Ki has openly expressed his admiration for Filipino artist Zack Tabudlo, particularly for the latter’s cover of “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You.” 

During a recent live broadcast, the Japanese K-pop star sang “Nothing’s Gonna Change My Love for You” for ENGENEs. He added, “I like the original version too, but there’s a cover by an artist that I like. I really like that cover, I listen to it every day.” This revelation sent waves of excitement through both artists’ fanbases, especially after it was pointed out that Ni-Ki was referring to Zack’s version, which boasts nine million views on TikTok.

Reacting to Ni-Ki‘s comments, Zack expressed his astonishment and appreciation on X (formerly Twitter). He described the shoutout as “crazy” and shared his gratitude with a heart emoji. 

A growing list of acknowledgments

The connection between Zack and ENHYPEN doesn’t end there. Another ENHYPEN member, Heeseung, also engaged with Zack’s music by covering the Filipino singer-songwriter’s hit “Give Me Your Forever” on TikTok. Zack reposted that cover on Instagram, expressing how honored he was that Heeseung sang his song.

Ni-Ki’s comments about Zack add to a growing list of acknowledgements the latter has received from high-profile figures. BTS’s Jungkook also played “Give Me Your Forever” during one of his live broadcasts. He said he would add the song to his playlist. This growing admiration has helped introduce Zack’s work to international audiences. In fact, it has led to a collaboration between Zack and Thai actor-singer Billkin.

@news5everywhere

Maraming napa-sana all nang patugtugin ni #BTS #JungKook ang kanta ng Pinoy artist na si #ZackTabudlo . #News5 #NewsPH #EntertainmentNewsPH #FrontlinePilipinas

♬ original sound – News5 – News5

Who is Zack Tabudlo?

Zack first gained attention as a contestant on the first season of The Voice Kids Philippines. He was under the mentorship of Filipino rock icon Bamboo Mañalac. Despite being eliminated in the competition’s second round, his music career has flourished.

His breakthrough came in early 2021 with the release of his hit “Binibini.” The song has garnered over 156 million streams, marking a significant milestone in his career. He later released his first full-length album, Episode. The album features songs that connected with both Filipino and international audiences.

Over his career, Zack has released several successful singles and albums. His latest album, 3rd Time’s A Charm, was released on November 17, 2023. He calls it his “most personal, vulnerable, and honest” work. His latest music video, “Pulso,” premiered on February 24. It starred Filipino vlogger CongTV and his partner Viy Cortez. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This proves that music really is the universal language. Sources: X/@nrkcheolso and X/@OFCSparkZArmyPH.

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SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Exempted From Military Service Due to ACL Injury

SEVENTEEN‘s leader, S.Coups, has been exempted from serving in the South Korean military. This exemption is due to a severe knee injury he sustained last year.

“S.Coups underwent anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction and lateral collateral ligament reconstruction in his left knee due to a tear in the anterior cruciate ligament. It was a major surgery, and he has been receiving rehabilitation treatment for a long period since last year. It is because of this that S.Coups was classified as Grade 5 in his physical examination,” his agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, said in a statement.

Understand Knee Ligament Injuries (ACL, PCL, MCL, LCL)

Being in Grade 5 exempts him from active duty. He is required to serve only in military affairs during wartime situations. His exemption is crucial as individuals born in 1995, like him, must enlist for active duty within the year.

PLEDIS Entertainment had previously announced that S.Coups would resume promoting with SEVENTEEN. “As a result of consistent treatment and ample rest, the injured area has somewhat improved,” they wrote. “Recently, he has received medical advice that it is okay to fulfill his scheduled activities as long as it does not strain his body excessively.”

ACL (Anterior Cruciate Ligament) LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) Tear and Repair

How are exemptions determined?

In South Korea, a physical examination determines military service exemptions and assignments. This process assigns military grades from 1 to 7. Grades 1 to 3 indicate fitness for active duty. Grade 4 is for those who qualify for supplemental service. Grade 6 leads to exemption from military service, and Grade 7 is for those who need a re-examination due to health issues. Exemptions also go to individuals with exceptional talents or debilitating health conditions.

Grade 5 in South Korea’s military classification generally means assignment to alternative service. This is instead of active duty due to physical or health conditions. There are instances where those classified as Grade 5 may still be exempted from all forms of military service. This includes alternative or social service. The decision is based on specific circumstances or additional evaluations of their condition. Each case is evaluated individually. Exemptions or assignments can vary based on the health issues’ nature and severity.

EXEMPT from military service?

Reality is reality

This policy aligns with broader policies detailed on the Yeson Hospital bulletin board. This platform facilitates e-consultations. Korean netizens can seek advice from medical specialists. According to one specialist, the Ministry of National Defense Ordinance No. 950 updated on February 1, 2018, says those who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction are classified as Grade 5. This classification means they’re exempted from military service regardless of the surgery’s outcome. 

The specialist’s explanation, dated July 29, 2018, notes that the exemption remains due to the knee’s vulnerability to further damage and arthritis. “In our experience, even if the patient insists on joining the military or conscripted police, life will not be easy because of the injured knee. In that case, colleagues and superiors will also have a hard time. The desire to fulfill one’s national defense duty deserves praise, but reality is reality.”

@itslive_official

[it’s Live] 세븐틴(SEVENTEEN) – “손오공 (Super)” 에스쿱스 ver.#itsLive #세븐틴 #손오공 #SEVENTEEN #Super #Fancam #직캠 #KPOP #잇츠라이브

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – it’s Live – it’s Live

S.Coups will participate in SVT’s next comeback

PLEDIS Entertainment responded to reports about the group’s comeback in April. “We will make an official announcement regarding SEVENTEEN‘s precise comeback schedule at a later date.”

Regardless of the exact comeback date, S.Coups will be part of it alongside bandmate Jeonghan, who also took a break for ankle surgery. They will participate in the group’s other scheduled activities, including their upcoming concerts in Seoul and Japan. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: S.Coups’s injury was so severe he needed two surgeries to fix it. Hence the exemption. Source: X/@svtcontents.

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RIIZE’s ‘Talk Saxy’ Disappears From TikTok After UMG Purge

When Universal Music Group (UMG) decided to pull its music from TikTok, citing the end of their contract and concerns over compensation, AI dangers, and user safety, nobody expected the fallout to hit the K-pop world quite as hard as it did. Among those caught in the crossfire was RIIZE’s infectious track “Talk Saxy,” which suddenly vanished from TikTok, leaving fans and the group reeling.

When UMG first made the announcement, fans wondered which songs would disappear from the platform. Speculation was rife that Western pop icons like Taylor Swift, Justin Bieber, and Ariana Grande, alongside K-pop powerhouses BTS and BLACKPINK, would see their music leave TikTok. But when the purge began on February 1, the impact was uneven. While many Western UMG-affiliated artists were affected, BTS and BLACKPINK weren’t—at least at first. The reason? Their contracts with UMG were mostly for distribution purposes, sparing their music from being pulled.

However, not all Korean artists were so fortunate. Tracks from several K-pop groups, including &TEAM, NCT units, Red Velvet, SuperM, and TWICE, were removed without rhyme or reason. Most of their Japanese and English releases disappeared. As February wore on, the situation escalated. In the beginning, only artists and songs directly under UMG or published via a subsidiary were purged. But the latest UMG takedown targeted music related to the company in any way, including any song with even the slightest connection to the company, whether through writers, producers, or other contributors.

‘RIIZE’ above the fray

But here’s where the story takes an uplifting turn. Enter V K (@vickyntamag on TikTok), who started whipping up acapella versions of beloved K-pop tracks silenced by the purge. Her rendition of “Talk Saxy” caught fire, amassing 1.3 million views.

@vickyntamag

@V K I know they’re not UMG but I had to 🤭😂 dc: @SAMU #riize #rizeandrealize #talksaxy #instrumental #Kpop #humour #umg #muted #tiktoksounds #fyp

♬ Talk Saxy on crack – V K ✨

RIIZE’s Sohee shared V K’s cover on TikTok with a reassuring message, “Don’t worry everyone… we still have this sound!” This post went viral, hitting 1.6 million views.

Other RIIZE members, Eunseok and Sungchan, showed their moves to V K’s version of “Talk Saxy,” further cementing the song’s undiminished appeal despite the takedown. Their engagement with V K’s content turned a moment of loss into a celebration of music and ingenuity.

@riize_official

🛗🎷 dc. @SAMU #RIIZE #라이즈 #EUNSEOK #은석 #SUNGCHAN #성찬 #RISEandREALIZE

♬ Talk Saxy on crack – V K ✨

These events shine a light on the effects of UMG’s clash with TikTok on artists and their supporters. Caught in the middle of a standoff between a leading record label and a social media powerhouse, artists like RIIZE and their fans face tough challenges. Despite these hurdles, the creative efforts and backing from fans like V K have allowed “Talk Saxy” to “RIIZE” above the fray. (See what we did there?) – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Necessity really is the mother of invention, even in the K-pop world. Source: X/@RIIZE_official.

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NCT WISH Books Appearance on Japan’s ‘SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024’

NCT WISH is set to perform at a fireworks festival called SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024. It’ll see fireworks lighting up the night sky in sync with music by some of the agency’s top acts. The festival will be held on April 20th in Huis Ten Bosch, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan.

@huistenbosch_official

＼✨最速抽選先行受付中✨／ 4/20(土)に #ハウステンボス で #SMTOWN_FIREWORKS_2024 を開催🎆 ミニライブに出演する #NCTWISH からのメッセージが届きました💖 専用チケットの最速抽選先行受付は3/3(日)23:59まで‼ 花火もライブもパークのアトラクションも全部楽しもう✨ #WISH #NCTWISH_WISH #SWTOWN #SMTOWN_LIVE #wish #nctwish_wish #WISH #NCTWISH #시온 #리쿠 #유우시 #재희 #료 #사쿠야 #シオン #リク #ユウシ #ジェヒ #リョウ #サクヤ #huistenbosch #はうすてんぼす #佐世保 #長崎 #nagasaki #九州 #テーマパーク #japan #旅行 #インスタ映え #日本

♬ オリジナル楽曲 – ハウステンボス公式 – ハウステンボス公式

NCT WISH plans to energize the festival atmosphere with a dynamic performance that will see them interact with the audience. The group, whose first stage took place at the Tokyo Dome in February, won over fans with their debut single “WISH” and its official music video, which showcases their refreshing, vibrant charm. Their recent appearances on Japan’s leading music shows, including NHK’s Venue 101, Nippon TV’s BUZZ RHYTHM 02, and TV Tokyo’s Music Festival SP, have solidified their presence in the Japanese music scene.

The group also connected with Korean fans at their first official fan meeting, held at the Blue Square Mastercard Hall in Seoul.

‘최초 공개’ NCT WISH – WISH (Korean Ver.) #엠카운트다운 EP.832 | Mnet 240307 방송

NCT WISH received support from BoA

When they appeared on Mnet’s M Countdown for the first time, they received support from BoA herself. The iconic SM Entertainment soloist, who also serves as their overall producer, didn’t just cheer them on. She gave them welcome encouragement and guidance that day. Despite the fact that the pre-recording session took place in the early morning, BoA meticulously directed every aspect of the performance. She focused on their gestures and stage presence, which helped the members immensely. 

Thanks to BoA’s help, they delivered polished performances of “WISH” and the B-side track “Sail Away.” This marked a successful music show debut in South Korea for the group.

최초 공개’ NCT WISH – Sail Away (Korean Ver.) #엠카운트다운 EP.832 | Mnet 240307 방송

NCT WISH‘s “WISH” has seen remarkable success. It topped Korean music charts and secured first place on Japan’s Oricon Daily Single Chart and RecoChoku’s Daily Album Chart. Additionally, the group has led the Chinese QQ Music Japanese Music Video Chart and achieved first place in iTunes Top Albums Chart in seven regions worldwide, demonstrating their international appeal and popularity.

Through their SMTOWN FIREWORKS 2024 performance, NCT WISH will further enchant fans with their unique blend of talent and charm. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Who’s excited to see fireworks go off to the tune of NCT WISH’s music? We are! Source: X/@nctwishofficial.

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GQ Korea Unveils Jungkook-Inspired Cocktails by Pine & Co

One of GQ Korea’s latest features spotlights South Korean hotspot Pine & Co., where bartenders Du Ui-hong (Joe) and Beom-suk Park (Patt) crafted a series of cocktails inspired by BTS’s Jungkook and his debut album, GOLDEN. Located in Seoul, Pine & Co. was established in 2020 with the mission of introducing patrons to various drinking cultures through their diverse selection of cocktails. Their creations are influenced by different things, including art, culture, experiences, and stories, and are distinguished by their commitment to sustainability and innovative techniques.

Following their homage to fourth-generation K-pop groups Stray Kids and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), Pine & Co.’s new concoctions celebrate the essence of GOLDEN through three unique cocktails, each inspired by a specific track from Jungkook’s album. The “Incomplete Alexander” draws inspiration from the album’s title track, “Standing Next To You,” while the taste of the “Bittersweet Negroni” mirrors the complex emotions of “Hate You,” track 7. Lastly, the “Reminiscent Highball” is a nod to the poignant “Shot Glass Of Tears,” track 10.

Complex flavors

To craft the Incomplete Alexander, start by chilling a glass and gathering your ingredients: Bombay cocoa gin, coffee syrup, orange soboro, and umami cream. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 45 ml of Bombay cocoa gin—Bombay redistilled with cocoa nibs—and 45 ml of coffee syrup, distilled coffee liquid balanced with sugar. Mix them thoroughly, then strain the mixture into your chilled glass. Next, Whip the umami cream enhanced with salt and glutamic acid for topping. Finally, garnish with a slice of sweet bread and a sprinkle of edible gold.

For the Bittersweet Negroni, you’ll need Bombay gin, Suze, a special Blanc de Blancs vermouth, and Campari foam. Begin by preparing the vermouth: degas Blanc de Blancs champagne and infuse it with chamomile, mint, and wormwood. Meanwhile, prepare the Campari foam by charging two eggs with Campari in a nitrous oxide siphon. In a mixing glass with ice, pour 45 ml of Bombay gin, 45 ml of Suze, and 20ml of your homemade vermouth. Stir well, then strain into a glass. Finally, crown your cocktail with a generous layer of Campari foam.

@joydarramartisano

Highball drink Ingredients: • whiskey • sparkling water or soda or ginger ale recommendation Lemon-dou • lot of ice 🍻👍 #Jk #Jungkook3D #Jungkook #jungkook_seven #bts #btsarmy

♬ original sound – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭 – I Purple You💜🇸🇦🇵🇭

A perfect tribute to Jungkook

To assemble the Reminiscent Highball, select a highball glass and cool it in advance. You’ll need Grey Goose vodka, geranium liqueur, and geranium flowers for the final touch. Begin by filling your glass with ice to the brim. Pour in 45 ml of Grey Goose, followed by 15 ml of geranium liqueur, which you can prepare by redistilling geranium leaves with vodka and balancing that with citric acid and sucrose. Top off the cocktail with soda and garnish it with fresh geranium flowers, placing them delicately atop the drink.

These cocktails aren’t just drinks; they’re an homage to Jungkook’s music, offering fans a taste of his artistry through the medium of mixology. They also demonstrate Pine & Co.’s dedication to crafting drinks that are as much about experience and storytelling as they are about taste. Fans have expressed appreciation for Pine & Co.’s gesture, recognizing it as a perfect tribute to Jungkook, who’s known for enjoying a drink or two, as seen in the live broadcasts he did before enlisting in the military. Next time you listen to GOLDEN from start to finish, make one of these cocktails to enhance the experience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook would probably love these cocktails too. Sources: X/@a_girlwitluv and X/@extraRYce.

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ENHYPEN’s Jake Buys Perfume for Fan He Met at Prada Store

ENHYPEN member Jake recently made headlines when he turned a chance encounter at a Prada store into a memorable moment for a fan. On the 29th, a story shared on X (formerly Twitter) by a netizen titled “Today, an Idol Gave a Prada Perfume to a Fan” quickly captured the attention of the K-pop community. The post revealed, “Jake told us to share this story with other ENGENEs, so here I am.”

The fan detailed their unexpected meeting with Jake, saying, “We bumped into each other at a Prada store. When I hesitantly said, ‘I’m an ENGENE,’ we were both surprised. Jake said he wanted to buy something for us but wasn’t sure if he could, then gave us his autograph and left.” However, Jake later returned to the store and bought the fan a bottle of perfume. The fan noted that he used his Minion’s print check card to pay for his purchase.

The perfume in question, Prada Paradoxe, was launched by the luxury brand in 2022 with an ad campaign featuring British actress Emma Watson. In a review of the perfume, Glamour UK described it as, “For Prada Paradoxe, the brand went for that ultimate sexy but sweet, flower power scent. Sitting comfortably in the floral ambery olfactive family, it taps into that sensual feminine energy with only a few spritz. The top notes feature dearly loved bergamot, a citrusy tangerine and pear accord, with the heart of the scent heavy on the neroli and flower blossom, and a vanilla and amber base.”

@strawberlliee

Jake really keeps his promise 😭😭 cr. @cl0ver4j on x #jake #enhypen #fyp

♬ Daddys Home – Hans

The ENHYPEN members love their fans

Netizens’ response to Jake’s gesture was overwhelmingly positive. Many looked back on a live broadcast he did when he revealed his intention to buy an ENGENE something if they ever met in a Prada store—a promise he obviously kept. While some fans expressed concerns over the possibility of unscrupulous individuals taking advantage of his generosity, the incident showcased how much the ENHYPEN members love their fans.

Meanwhile, ENHYPEN recently held an encore concert, FATE+,  at Olympic Park in Seoul’s Songpa-gu on February 23. On February 21, their song “Bite Me” from their fourth mini album DARK BLOOD reached over 100 million views on YouTube. This achievement marks the third music video by ENHYPEN to surpass 100 million views, after “Drunk-Dazed” and “FEVER” from their second mini album BORDER: CARNIVAL.

Jake’s gesture was a real-life plot twist, turning a run-of-the-mill Prada store visit into a fan’s epic tale. It wasn’t just about the perfume; it was about breaking the invisible barrier between idol and fan, proving that sometimes, reality can be as sweet (or should we say “sweet-smelling” instead?) as fiction. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This proves Jake is the kind of guy who keeps his promises. Source: X/@enhypenupdates.

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BTS’s V Posts Emotional Message to Fans on His Instagram Stories

BTS member Kim Taehyung (aka V) is still serving in the military, having enlisted in December last year. While fans eagerly await his return along with the rest of the septet, it’s clear that V misses his supporters just as much.

On March 2, V took to Instagram Stories, posting an old video featuring all seven BTS members practicing the choreography for their hit single “Permission to Dance.” He captioned it with the words, “ARMYs haven’t forgotten about me, right? I’m still breathing, you know? Do you think of us occasionally?” This moment of vulnerability tugged at the heartstrings of fans worldwide. It prompted many to reassure V of their continued love and support.

@mitch_army_bts

@thv ig story update🥰💜 #v #taehyung #thv #bts #btsarmy #foryoupage #foryou #fyp

♬ original sound – Mr. Jeongguk🐰 – Mr. Jeongguk🐰

They took to the fan community platform Weverse to remind V that they’re also counting down the days till he completes his mandatory military service. One fan’s post caught V’s attention. They wrote, “Taehyung–ah, I’m thinking of you as naturally as breathing. You’re always sparkling in my heart, I won’t forget you. So be healthy and comfortable. I’m still here without changing.”

V replied, “Then that’s a relief~ thought it was just one-sided for me.”

The BTS member will drop a new song

Amid this exchange of love and support, V’s agency BigHit Music organized a special event to help V connect with fans. The event, named FRI(END)S Party, is scheduled for March 16 in Seongdong District, Seoul. This get-together aligns with the release of V’s new song, “FRI(END)S,” which is set to hit streaming services on the 15th. Those who attend will get to watch its official music video and leave handwritten letters and voice messages for V. This event, exclusive to BTS’s official fan club members, is intended as a gift to the fans from BigHit Music. 

“FRI(END)S” signifies V’s first new release since he dropped his debut solo album Layover in September 2023. The track is described by his agency as an English pop-soul R&B piece perfect for spring.

V’s military service has been marked by numerous achievements. He began by applying to the Capital Defense Command’s Special Division Team (SDT). He passed the document screening, interview rounds, and physical fitness tests, then enrolled in a five-week basic training course. Upon graduating, he was named an elite soldier. Finally, V went to the Army Administrative School for an additional three weeks of training.

Upon completing his advanced training, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which is under the Ground Operations Command. V began his service in the military police special task force, directly overseen by the headquarters of the 2nd Corps in Chuncheon, Gangwon Province. He’s set to be discharged on June 10, 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V proved even the biggest superstars need validation from time to time. Source: X/@BTSx50States.

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BTS’s V and Jackie Chan Team Up for SimInvest Commercial

BTS’s V and Jackie Chan took the internet by storm when they appeared in a new ad for SimInvest, an Indonesian investment company. The one-minute commercial begins with V affectionately referring to the legendary Jackie Chan as his “best friend with no limits.” Viewers are treated to scenes of the K-pop idol indulging in the finer things in life, like playing squash and driving a luxury car, before joining the martial arts film legend for dinner. The highlight of the ad is when the two stars share a dance, with V teaching Chan some dance moves and Chan showing V some kung fu moves in return.

The commercial aims to prove that friendships can transcend all kinds of boundaries, including hobbies, generation, favorite sport, favorite food, ethnicity, or distance. This video also symbolizes SimInvest’s commitment to always be a friend to all its users in providing a limitless investing experience.

The campaign’s slogan, “Anywhere, anytime, anyone, experience unlimited experiences with SimInvest,” encourages Indonesians to explore the investment opportunities offered by SimInvest, accessible to anyone with an ID card. This collaboration between V and Jackie Chan aims to inspire more individuals to consider investing as a means to achieve a better financial future. The advertisement has also been featured on OOH screens around Jakarta, including the HI roundabout.

V and Jackie Chan are now #ExperienceLimitlessWithSimInvest

SimInvest execs on the impact of this collaboration

Reflecting on the impact of this collaboration, Ferita Lie, president commissioner of Sinarmas Sekuritas and director of Sinar Multiartha, stated, “Over the last two years, SimInvest has grown very rapidly thanks to the presence of V, who has a loyal fan base among young people. But we can’t stop presenting new things; that’s why we chose Jackie Chan as the second brand ambassador, side by side with V, to represent a more senior group. We are optimistic that Jackie’s figure can be in line with our vision and mission to realize financial inclusion and investment in Indonesia that is more massive and globally competitive.”

Jamial Salim Konpoi, president director of Sinarmas Sekuritas, emphasized that choosing Jackie Chan as a brand ambassador is strategic for enhancing SimInvest’s appeal and building public trust. This partnership reflects the diversity of SimInvest’s clientele. Following the ad’s release, V shared a heartwarming behind-the-scenes video on Instagram, showcasing his natural ability to connect with others, highlighted by his warm interaction with Chan.

@kimsumarie888

Kim Taehyung update his IG story today 03-01-24 with Behind the Scene Clip of Siminvest #Taehyung #JackieChan #Siminvest

♬ original sound – ✨김마리🐻👑 – ✨김마리🐻👑

V expanded SimInvest’s presence on the global stage

Since naming V as its ambassador last March, SimInvest has seen significant growth and increased global recognition, thanks in part to V’s influence. The idol did everything he could to expand SimInvest’s presence on the global stage. He participated in a series of ad campaigns and activities, including his offline fan meeting held in June of the previous year.

SimInvest plans to unveil more content featuring the dynamic duo in the coming weeks, starting with these videos.

Hello from Jackie Chan

Hello from V

Stay tuned for updates! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This collaboration wasn’t on fans’ 2024 bingo card, but they loved it nonetheless. Source: YouTube/@army_bts_do8es.

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