Author: Kpop News Writer

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN’s Producer Bumzu Is Highest-Paid K-Pop Songwriter of 2023

Bumzu

Bumzu, the creative force behind SEVENTEEN, was named the highest-earning K-pop songwriter for the year 2023. The Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA) made this announcement, giving Bumzu the Grand Prize at the 10th KOMCA Awards on February 26, 2024. The Grand Prize goes to the creator who made the most money from their copyrighted music in the previous year. BTS’s producer Pdogg held this title for five consecutive years.

The annual KOMCA Awards, held every February, also recognizes achievements like the best rearrangement and most-streamed song. Bumzu’s work with PLEDIS Entertainment artists like NU’EST and SEVENTEEN played a pivotal role in propelling K-pop to the forefront of the global mainstream market. With SEVENTEEN alone selling over 10 million albums in South Korea and securing four No. 1 songs on the US Billboard World Albums chart, Bumzu’s influence is undeniable.

“Frankly, I feel a lot of pressure. There are many times when that pressure gnaws away at me. But it’s also true that this feeling drives me to become stronger again,” said Bumzu in a previous interview. 

[Special Clip] BUMZU(범주) _ 아낀다(Adore U) of 세븐틴(SEVENTEEN) Cover

How Bumzu got his start

Growing up in Seoul, Bumzu—whose real name is Kye Beom-joo—was a talented child violinist. At five years old, he was already writing songs in his head. He was heavily influenced by his older brother, who filled their home with musical equipment. Because he was forbidden to touch any of it for fear of breaking something, he began working part-time to buy his own equipment so he could get into music production himself.

Bumzu’s musical influences are diverse, ranging from visual kei—a blend of glam rock, metal, and punk popular in Japan since the 80s—to hip-hop and R&B. He honed his skills in Hongdae’s underground music scene. In 2012, he competed in the televised talent show Superstar K. Although he didn’t win, he gained enough popularity to release his first EP a year later. After joining PLEDIS Entertainment, he started out as a vocal coach for a group of young trainees who later became SEVENTEEN. He co-wrote their first hit, “Adore U.” He now credits that song with helping him to develop and refine his style.

[M/V] 세븐틴(SEVENTEEN)-아낀다 (Adore U)

Collaborative spirit

Bumzu spends most of his day writing songs for other artists, working in the studio, and attending meetings with few breaks. He emphasizes the importance of collaboration and open communication in the music industry. “Nobody can accomplish everything or shine alone,” he says. “I have a team to strengthen my expertise, and I always consult professionals in other areas.” He works closely with SEVENTEEN member Woozi, who he says is one of his closest friends. Together, they co-write and co-produce the group’s releases.

For Bumzu, inspiration can come from anywhere, even while working out. “I feel like I’m in the same boat with the singers I produce for. We know that teamwork is important and everyone tries to go in one direction. If I row the opposite way, we can’t sail where we want to go. Even a small paddle can have a big impact,” he shares, highlighting the collaborative spirit that has led to his success. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Congratulations, Bumzu! Source: X/@SpainCarat.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Seungkwan Releases First Self-Penned Song, ‘Dandelion’

SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist Boo Seungkwan recently released the solo single “Dandelion,” which was warmly received by fans for its well-crafted lyrics and Seungkwan’s emotional vocals.

The song’s blend of R&B elements with piano and strings gives it a comforting vibe. The lyrics, co-written by the idol, liken dandelion seeds to little beacons of hope. They encourage people to move forward despite the pains of the past. Lines like “I live my day as if I forgot yesterday” and “I walk gently in the spring breeze” evoke a sense of peace and tranquility. The chorus emphasizes the importance of love, sharing it with others, and keeping memories alive through acts of kindness.

The song is dedicated to Seungkwan‘s late BFF, ASTRO’s Moonbin. Before he passed away, Moonbin posted a photo of a dandelion on ASTRO’s official X (formerly Twitter) account. Dandelions are celebrated for their resilience and ability to thrive even in adverse conditions. They symbolize hope and the renewal of spring following a severe winter. Moonbin’s final words, coupled with the imagery of the dandelion, provided comfort to fans. They serve as a cherished reminder of the joy and warmth he brought into their lives.

This connection to Moonbin makes Seungkwan’s new song all the more meaningful, especially for those who knew the late idol well. In fact, following the release of “Dandelion,” Seungkwan and Moonbin’s bandmate, Cha Eunwoo, shared a moment of reflection. They took a late-night walk together while listening to the song.

Seungkwan talks ‘Dandelion’

On the eve of the song’s release, Seungkwan shared his thoughts on Weverse, “The song I’ve been working on since last year’s break will be released to the world in about two hours. I wasn’t nervous at all, but now I’m feeling a bit jittery,” he admitted. “It’s probably because this is the first song being released by just me, aside from broadcasts or OSTs. But I’m happy to start this new beginning with ‘Dandelion.’”

Seungkwan also talked about his creative process. “Working on songs has always been a top item on my bucket list, but I kept postponing it, using my busy schedule as an excuse and finding it a bit daunting. But I wanted to ensure ‘Dandelion’ wasn’t delayed, and thanks to some wonderful people, I was able to muster the courage to work on it. Through this work, I’ve realized once again how much effort from many people goes into completing a single song. This process has been an invaluable series of experiences and lessons, turning it into an unforgettable work period and deepening my love for music.”

@zhangsoul

#seventeen #astroeunwoo #fyp #viral #trending #xyzcba #seventeen17_official #dandelion

♬ Dandelion – SEUNGKWAN

He ended by saying, “I hope this song reaches many people, including CARATs. I wish that when spring arrives and they see dandelion seeds, even if only for a brief moment, it inspires them to live with a bit more warmth. I’m grateful to everyone who contributed to making this song’s release possible.”

“Dandelion” is available on streaming services worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Reeling from Moonbin’s passing, Seungkwan turned to music to help himself heal, leading to the creation of ‘Dandelion.’ Source: X/@116_jpg.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Netizens React to Fan Selling Strands of Jang Wonyoung’s Hair

A recent event in China has captured widespread attention and sparked a flurry of reactions online. Last week, the Chinese media outlet NetEase posted a story about an unusual auction. An unnamed individual auctioned off three strands of hair belonging to IVE‘s Jang Wonyoung. Conducted on an online platform, the auction attracted over 1,200 viewers, showcasing the high level of interest in the item.

The unnamed individual claimed to have personally collected the hair during a concert. To address those doubting the item’s authenticity, he suggested that a DNA test would prove its legitimacy. Despite questions about his credibility, the auction went on as scheduled.

The bidding started at a staggering 99,999 CNY (approximately 18.47 million KRW or 13,862 USD). This illustrates the lengths some fans are willing to go to own a piece of their idol, in this case, quite literally. Subsequent bids drove the price up to an astonishing 103,662 CNY (approximately 19.15 million KRW or 14,373 USD).

Get ready with Jang WonYoung in Paris 💖💄

Jang Wonyoung deserves privacy and respect

As news of this auction spread, netizens expressed their disbelief and criticism. Comments ranged from shock—”Are they really selling that?”—to outright condemnation of the act as absurd, even if the hair genuinely belonged to Jang Wonyoung. The sale raised concerns not just about the ethics of selling personal items of celebrities but also about the implications for their privacy. Many found it disturbing that someone would sell another person’s hair, and equally strange that there was a market for such items.

Furthermore, this incident has prompted discussions about the boundaries of fan culture and the invasion of privacy of public figures. Some netizens condemned the auction as a gross invasion of the artist’s personal space, calling for respect and privacy for celebrities.

In other news, Jang Wonyoung and the other members of IVE—An Yujin, Gaeul, Leeseo, Liz, and Rei—are gearing up for their second fan meeting in South Korea. Titled MAGAZINE IVE, it’s set to take place at the Seoul Olympic Handball Gymnasium on March 9 at 6:00 PM and March 10 at 5:00 PM. Their agency, Starship Entertainment, recently released a set of concept photos for the fan meeting, heightening fans’ excitement. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This news begs the question, ‘How did the unnamed individual get Wonyoung’s hair?’ Source: Vogue Korea.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT’s Taeyong Cries While Wrapping Up ‘TY Track’ Concerts in Seoul

NCT’s Taeyong left NCTzens deeply moved when he hit the Olympic Hall stage for the last of his TY Track concerts in Seoul. As he performed “Back to the Past,” the idol found himself overcome with emotion, tears streaming down his face. The song, with references to seeking approval and understanding from his parents, conveys Taeyong’s journey towards self-acceptance and growth. This moment of vulnerability was a stark contrast to the vibrant, confident persona he had maintained throughout the show.

2402245 TAEYONG – Back to the Past / 엔딩멘트 | TY TRACK

Taeyong connected with fans

The concerts were split into six thematic sections: Artistry, Love, Separation, Hurt, Healing, and Autobiography. The 23-song setlist featured tracks Taeyong had a hand in creating, including ones from his solo EPs Shalala and Tap. This demonstrates his deep involvement in his music.

From the opening number “Concrete,” with lyrics about overcoming adversity, to his high-octane renditions of “Virtual Insanity” and “¥£$,” Taeyong captivated the audience with his dancing and stage presence. His performance of “Shalala,” the title track of his debut solo EP, was particularly memorable.

240225 TAEYONG – SHALALA | TY TRACK

The concert’s Love section paid tribute to classic musicals with “H.E.R,” set against a romantic cityscape reminiscent of the films Singin’ in the Rain and La La Land. Following this, “Lonely” transformed the stage into a retro American bar. Then, on “Move Mood Mode,” Taeyong invited the crowd to sing Wendy’s part. The show’s most exciting part came in the third section with “404 File Not Found.” Here, Taeyong, suspended in the air, delivered an awe-inspiring performance.

The journey through Taeyong’s emotions culminated with “Tap,” which led into “Run Away.” This segued into the autobiographical segment where he performed “Long Flight,” weaving through the crowd and connecting with fans on a personal level.

240225 TAEYONG – Run Away | TY TRACK

Emotional peak

The concert reached its emotional peak during the final song, “Back to the Past.” Taeyong made a heartfelt confession to the audience, acknowledging the immense pressure he felt to meet his own expectations. The moment was a poignant reminder of the human behind the idol. A human striving for recognition and now, perhaps, finding a sense of peace.

“I tried my best for 10 years. I really did my best up till now,” the performer said after shedding tears during “Back to the Past.” “It took me 10 years to match up to the standards I set up for myself. In some parts of my mind, I always had this compulsion of having to be recognized and to do well. But now I think I can let go.”

@noonayong71

YOU DID WELL TAEYONGIE.. SO PROUD OF YOU, YOU KNOW I LOVE YOU SO MUCH TAEYONG 1ST CONCERT D2 #TYTRACKinSEOUL_D2 #TAEYONG_TY_TRACK

♬ suara asli – nonot – nonot

Taeyong’s journey from a trainee in 2012 to this moment on stage showcases his perseverance, talent, and how fame has shaped him. After bidding farewell, fans left the venue not just with memories of an unforgettable performance but also with anticipation for what’s next for Taeyong. This excitement was heightened by an announcement made earlier in the evening about the release of a solo documentary.

Indeed, Taeyong’s readiness to share every aspect of himself—from his talent to his deepest emotions—sets him apart. He bared his soul that night, creating a profound connection with his audience. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Taeyong paused the waterworks long enough to pose for a photo with the audience. Source: X/@NCTsmtown.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Lucas Opens Up About the State of His Mental Health During His Hiatus

Lucas Wong, a former member of the K-pop groups NCT and WayV, opened up about his past controversies in a new documentary titled Freeze. Released on February 24 on his YouTube channel, this documentary is one of the steps he’s taking to return to the music industry under SM Entertainment—this time as a solo artist. The 22-minute video sheds light on what the Hong Kong-born idol has been up to during his time away from the spotlight. Lucas went on hiatus in August 2021 amid accusations of abuse and gaslighting by an alleged ex-girlfriend, along with similar claims from another individual.

Freeze opens with a look at a day in the life of Lucas during his hiatus before delving into the controversy that led to his official departure from NCT and WayV in May 2023. He admits that the “incident” altered his “personality and thoughts” and goes into detail about the toll it took on his mental health.

LUCAS Documentary Part1 | Freeze

“I stayed only in my room for about six months; I didn’t want to do anything,” he reveals. “In all seriousness, my hair kept falling out. I didn’t even eat properly because I had no appetite. I had terrible thoughts; I was so sorry I wanted to die because honestly, it was all my fault.”

His candid reflections on his actions and their consequences show a level of self-awareness and responsibility. He admits, “Honestly, I did the things I did in the past because I really was out of my mind.”

Lucas issues another apology

At the height of the controversy almost three years ago, he posted a handwritten note in which he apologized to “those who were hurt by my wrong behavior” without directly mentioning what happened. He issues another apology in Freeze. Lucas opening up about his mental health struggles and taking responsibility for his actions offer a glimpse into his significant growth.

“I haven’t been able to say this properly, not even once. But I feel so sorry. I’ve done a terrible thing; I feel so sorry that I let everyone down. Nothing can justify what I’ve done. Now, my views have changed; I realized many bad things about myself,” he says.

LUCAS Documentary Part2 | Unfreeze

Five days after Freeze dropped, another video titled Unfreeze dropped on Lucas’s YouTube channel. It serves as a continuation of his apology tour. (For the uninitiated, an apology tour involves a public figure making multiple appearances or statements to apologize for past mistakes and seek forgiveness, aiming to repair their reputation or address controversies.)

SM Entertainment recently launched new official social media accounts for Lucas, although the agency hasn’t announced any concrete plans for his comeback. As he makes his way back into the spotlight, his diehard fans hope people will look kindly on him and give him a second chance. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The controversy changed Lucas irrevocably. Source: X/@lucas_official.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE Becomes First K-Pop Agency to Achieve 2 Trillion KRW in Revenue

HYBE has become the first K-pop agency to cross the 2 trillion KRW revenue mark. With a reported 2.18 trillion KRW (1.67 billion USD) in earnings for 2023, this represents a 22.6% increase from the previous year. This financial milestone was propelled by strong album sales from NewJeans, SEVENTEEN, and TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT). Album sales alone accounted for 44.6% of the agency’s total revenue, an increase from 31.1% in the previous year. 

Together, these groups played a significant role in boosting HYBE’s album sales from its Korean artists, nearly doubling the total from 22.2 million units in 2022 to 43.6 million units. In Korea, SEVENTEEN led album sales with a staggering 15.9 million units, followed by TXT and NewJeans, who sold 6.5 million and 4.3 million albums, respectively. These numbers are from Circle Chart, which tracks sales only in Korea.

Hybe becomes 1st K-pop agency to top 2 tln won in annual sales

A bright spot

Revenue from the agency’s US-based record labels—Nashville’s Big Machine Label Group and Quality Control, an Atlanta-based hip-hop label the agency acquired in February 2023—grew 70% to 150 billion KRW (114.9 million USD). This accounts for nearly half of HYBE’s streaming revenue growth for the year. Meanwhile, streaming revenue from the agency’s Korean labels outside Korea also saw an increase of 102% to 107 billion KRW (81.9 million USD). This highlights HYBE’s global reach and the growing international demand for K-pop.

Concert revenue also experienced a substantial increase of 39.1% to 359.1 billion KRW (275 million USD). It accounted for 16.5% of HYBE’s total revenue, up from 14.5% in 2022. This indicates that 2023 was a big year for live performances. This growth was attributed to an increase in the number of concerts. HYBE had 125 concerts from seven touring artists in 2023, compared to 78 concerts from four touring artists in 2022.

Despite these successes, some revenue sources such as ads, appearances, content, licensing, and merchandise experienced declines. Thankfully, revenue from fan clubs emerged as a bright spot, showing a 35.9% increase to 91.2 billion KRW (70 billion USD).

QC Sold For $320 Million To Scooter Braun’s Company Hybe America

More good news

Here’s more good news: HYBE’s gross profit improved by 19.7% to 1 trillion KRW (773 million USD), though the growth rate was slightly lower than that of revenue. This was due to a 25.2% increase in the cost of sales. Nonetheless, the agency’s operating profit improved by 24.9% to 295.8 billion KRW (227 million USD), while its net profit rose by 288% to 186.5 billion KRW (143 million USD). This demonstrates effective cost management and operational efficiency.

Geographically, Korea’s share of HYBE’s revenue went from 33% in 2022 to 36% in 2023. Japan’s share also saw an increase, going from 28% to 31%. However, North America’s share dropped slightly. It fell from 32% to 26% despite the acquisition of Quality Control.

The fan community platform Weverse ended 2023 with 10.1 million monthly active users in the fourth quarter. This shows a slight decrease from 10.6 million in the third quarter but an overall year-on-year increase, as Weverse had only 8.5 million monthly active users in December 2022. The platform expanded its artist communities significantly, from 71 at the end of 2022 to 122 by the end of 2023.

eternal sunshine (label reactions)

HYBE is moving fast toward the future

Looking ahead, HYBE plans to expand its roster while promoting its existing artists. TWS has already debuted and is doing well, securing endorsement deals and music show wins. I’LL-IT and KATSEYE are also gearing up for their debuts. Meanwhile, HYBE America’s management division, Scooter Braun Projects, is poised for significant growth, especially with the upcoming release of Ariana Grande’s album Eternal Sunshine.

In addition to its financial achievements, HYBE also announced a shareholder value enhancement plan with a dividend of 700 KRW per share, totaling 29.2 billion KRW. This reflects the agency’s commitment to prioritizing shareholder value despite being in a growth phase.

HYBE CEO Park Ji-won believes the company’s dynamic and collaborative business model is a key driver of its success. “HYBE is moving fast toward the future with an unwavering vision. Our multi-label system allows each label to operate independently to reduce heavy reliance on certain artists or labels, and the labels compete and cooperate under the system,” he said. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Talk about record-breaking earnings! Source: The Korea Times.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here’s What Soldiers Need to Do to Get an Autograph From BTS’s V

Since BTS’s V and the other members enlisted in the South Korean military, they haven’t been as visible. News about how their service is going is rare. However, a recent revelation from an unnamed soldier has shed some light on what the “Slow Dancing” singer has been up to lately.

According to this unnamed soldier, the process to obtain an autograph from V in the military is unique, to say the least. “If you write your name down on a post-it note to get an autograph from V, executive officers get five. Assistant officers only get two. However, V won’t just give autographs to assistant officers.” 

V apparently came up with a playful challenge for those seeking a personal memento from him. “He makes you solve a quiz in order to get an autograph,” the unnamed soldier elaborates. “This quiz asks questions such as, ‘What are the BTS members’ names?’ and ‘What is the title of a BTS song?’ If you get the answers wrong, he’ll link arms with other soldiers and chase you out.”

@borahaebtsfans

#Taehyung went to where the op’s uncle works Taehyung’s military autographed story (according to op’s uncle) “If you write your name on a post-it note and bring in to get an autograph, executives will get five autographs and assistants will only get two. But instead of just signing an autograph, the trainees had to solve a quiz. The quiz was ‘What are the names of the BTS members?’ ‘What is the title of the BTS song?’ If you get it wrong, the trainees next to you will link their arms and take you away.” Taehyung be like ‘you need to work hard to get my sign’ lmaooo 😭

♬ original sound – 💜ᗷᗩᑎǤ丅ᗩᑎ – 💜ᗷᗩᑎǤ丅ᗩᑎ93

V was inspired by Na PD

This approach is inspired by the variety shows of producer Na Young Suk. As it happens, V and Na PD know each other quite well because they worked together on one such show—2023’s Jinny’s Kitchen.

V’s military journey has been marked by many 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. Until then, he continues to leave quite an impression on his fellow soldiers with his unique sense of humor. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans aren’t surprised that V is up to his usual antics even during his service. Source: Vogue Korea.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EL CAPITXN Appears on ‘Suchwita’ as SUGA’s Last Guest

The last episode of Suchwita aired on February 26, marking a special moment for BTS’s SUGA. He invited his best friend, Jang Yi Jeong, aka producer EL CAPITXN, to close out the season with him. EL CAPITXN is best known for his contributions to songs by BTS, as well as SUGA’s solo projects. He had a hand in crafting “Take Two,” “AMYGDALA,” and more.

On the show, they reflected on their friendship and the obstacles they’ve encountered. EL CAPITXN opened up about his vocal control issues for the first time, revealing how it affected his singing and speaking abilities. He described feeling frustrated when he couldn’t perform songs he knew well as his voice wouldn’t cooperate, leading to fears of singing off-key.

EL CAPITXN shared a moment that highlighted the severity of his condition. “Back then, I simply thought I wasn’t in my best form and kept brushing it off, but the more time went by, the more uncomfortable I became. It got to the point it affected me even when I was just talking. The first time I realized that was when I was at the agency, and the CEO was walking by at the end of the hallway. I wanted to say, ‘Hello,’ but the words didn’t come out. I was so shocked.” He sought medical advice, but none of the doctors he consulted could figure out what was happening to him.

@nujiko.ily

ความต่างที่ลงตัว จนกลายเป็นความพิเศษ #SugaWithElxcapitxn #อีจองเพื่อนชูก้าbts #SUGA #minyoongi #AgustD #jangyijeong #elxcapitxn #elcapitxn #อีจอง #ติ่งกับTikTok #fyp @BTS

♬ 친구 – BTS

They bonded over songwriting

He and SUGA bonded over songwriting in 2016. The BTS member was so impressed by the latter’s talent that he offered to give EL CAPITXN‘s demo to BigHit Entertainment (now BigHit Music). However, when EL CAPITXN’s former group disbanded, he signed with another agency instead.

Even so, SUGA remained supportive of his friend. He even offered to finance medical treatments for his vocal issues. “I say this every time I see you, but I still wish that you would sing too. Back then, I said this too. I was driving and said, ‘If you want to be a singer, fix your voice first. You have to get that taken care of to do what you want to do. I’ll pay for the hospital fees. No matter how much it costs, I’ll support you. You can pay me back slowly when you can. If you want to be a singer, that agency is the right choice but get your voice fixed first.’ That’s what I said,” SUGA recalled.

EL CAPITXN says SUGA’s offer made him look at the BTS member in a whole new light. “I remember exactly how I felt in your car that day. I’ve never told you this before. We may be friends now, but back then, the way I saw it, and the way I felt was that you were just a business friend. And no wonder, because I had asked for your help, and that’s how we met. It felt like we were friends out of necessity. But no one could bring up the problems I had first like you did. No one, not even my family, could talk to me easily about the fact that I wasn’t able to sing anymore, but you brought it up while you were driving.”

[슈취타] EP.27 SUGA with 장이정

SUGA expressed hope for ‘Suchwita’ season two

While SUGA couldn’t directly revive EL CAPITXN’s singing career, he did help the latter find a new direction. This support not only provided EL CAPITXN with a new career path but also cemented their friendship. “So, then you came back to our agency, ‘Yoongi, you gotta help me out,’ and you gave me another demo. You had wanted to release an album but that didn’t work out, but you weren’t able to do anything as a songwriter yet either, so, I figured I should help you debut as a songwriter,” SUGA said.

As the episode drew to a close, SUGA took a moment to bid farewell to the first season of Suchwita and express his hope for a second season. He also shared a heartfelt message with fans, asking them to wait for BTS to be discharged. “If you just wait a little bit, you’ll be able to see the seven of us running around on the stage again,” SUGA assured fans.

The end of Suchwita‘s first season stirred a wave of emotions among fans. ARMYs worldwide are clinging to the rapper’s words as they await the septet’s return as a full group in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This was a great way to end the show’s first season! Source: X/@bts_bighit.

Categories
BTS K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jimin Will Grace the March 2024 Cover of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam

BTS’s Jimin has been announced as the cover star for the March 2024 issue of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam. The fashion magazine made the announcement on its official Instagram. One of the cover blurbs highlighted the K-pop idol’s thoughts on accessories. “Accessories possess the remarkable ability to uplift my spirits,” he shared.

The interview and photoshoot were done before he joined the South Korean military on December 12, 2023, alongside fellow BTS member Jungkook. They enlisted together under the “동반입대” (dongbanipdae) or buddy system. This program allows them to enlist, train, and live together for the duration of their service.


In one of the photos—which Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam chose for the cover—Jimin wore a Dior jacket and dress pants. He also donned bracelets, necklaces, and rings from Tiffany & Co.’s Tiffany Lock collection, which the brand debuted in August 2022. Padlocks, which have been a motif for the brand since the 1880s, inspired the collection. It features pieces made with highly polished 18-carat gold and hand-set pavé diamonds, symbolizing love and commitment.

In a subsequent Instagram post, Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam posted photos of Jimin clad in black and gray blazer suits, a blue and white striped shirt with blue checkered knitwear, and a bucket hat, all from Dior. He also wore pieces from Tiffany & Co.’s Tiffany HardWear and Tiffany T. collections. This collection finds its roots in a 1971 bracelet from Tiffany’s archives. It offers bold and expressive pieces that capture New York City’s spirited atmosphere. As for the Tiffany T collection, its designs are characterized by a sleek T motif inspired by the brand’s name.

Jimin and his stunning visuals

A final series of photos saw Jimin wearing Dior again. Two brooches from Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co., named “Paris Flame” and “Bird on a Rock,” complemented his clothes. The former has diamonds at the center, set in 18k yellow gold and platinum to resemble the way a flame flickers and moves.

The latter is one of the 21st century’s most iconic jewelry designs. This 18k yellow gold and platinum brooch had a diamond-encrusted bird on an emerald-cut tanzanite “rock.” It can also come with aquamarine, kunzite, morganite, spessartine, and tourmaline gemstones, available in cushion or oval cuts.


Styled by Kim Youngjin and captured by photographer Hong Jang-hyun, with hair by Dareum Kim and makeup by Hansom from Bit & Boot, this feature highlights Jimin‘s ability to navigate the realm of high fashion with ease. 

Fans are excited for the release of Harper’s Bazaar Vietnam’s March 2024 issue. Not just because of Jimin and his stunning visuals, but also because the interview will give them greater insight into the BTS member’s journey as a style icon. – K-Pop News Writer 

Featured Image: Elegance, thy name is Jimin. Source: Instagram/@bazaarvietnam.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Dispatch Reveals Actor Lee Jae Wook and aespa’s Karina Are Dating

On the morning of February 27, South Korean media outlet Dispatch broke the news that actor Lee Jae Wook and aespa‘s Karina are in a relationship. Hours later, Lee Jae Wook’s agency, CJes Studios, made a statement confirming the report. “The two are getting to know each other,” they wrote. “Lee Jae Wook is currently filming a drama, and as this involves his private life, we ask for warm respect to be shown.”

Echoing this sentiment, Karina‘s agency, SM Entertainment, confirmed the budding romance. According to Dispatch, the actor and the aespa member first crossed paths at the Prada fashion show in Milan on January 14 and started dating soon after. The report detailed their discreet meetings in Lee Jae Wook’s neighborhood and shared sightings of the couple during late-night walks, painting a picture of a nascent, yet promising, relationship.

@jaehyunboynextdoor

THEY LOOK CUTE THO 😭😭🫶 KARINA AND LEE JAEWOOK DATING NEWS #karina #leejaewook #dating #dispatch #karinaaespa #aespa #jaewook #kdrama #actor #kdramafyp #kpop #kpopfyp #fyp #fypシ #foryou #foryoupage

♬ Star – Colde

However, this romantic development seems to have cast a shadow over SM Entertainment’s financial standing. On the day the relationship was confirmed, SM Entertainment’s stock experienced a significant downturn, opening at 87,700 KRW (about 65.80 USD) and closing at 79,900 KRW (about 60.00 USD). This marked a decrease of 3,000 KRW (about 2.25 USD) or 3.7 percent.

This decline was surprising given the company’s recent announcement on February 7 about its decision to pay dividends worth approximately 28.1 billion KRW (about 21.1 million USD) and retire 241,379 of its shares. This strategic financial maneuver was aimed at enhancing shareholder value, marking a first in SM Entertainment’s history since its inception in 1995. The link between the dating news and the stock market’s reaction remains speculative. That said, the timing of the downturn is too big of a coincidence.

Dispatch has a history of exposing dating news

Karina, who debuted with aespa in 2020, and Lee Jae Wook, who has been acting since 2018, are influential figures in their respective fields. Meanwhile, Dispatch is known for revealing high-profile relationships, often at the start of the new year. This has become an anticipated event among fans, as Dispatch has a history of exposing dating news involving K-pop idols, actors, and other celebrities, leading to widespread media coverage and public interest.

As their fans come to terms with this news, the industry is watching closely to see how this relationship will unfold. Many are concerned about its eventual impact on both their careers and the broader entertainment landscape. The confirmation by their agencies marks a significant moment, blending the worlds of acting and K-pop in a romance that has everyone talking. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Apparently it was love at first sight for both celebrities. Source: X/@femmrohi.

Exit mobile version