Author: Kpop News Writer

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Stray Kids’ Felix Spotted Doing Volunteer Work in Laos

Felix performing during Stray Kids' concert. Credit: Facebook/Stray Kids

On February 7, several South Korean media outlets reported that Felix of the K-pop boy group Stray Kids was spotted doing volunteer work in Laos during his Lunar New Year vacation. 

To recall, Felix was named as the youngest member of the esteemed UNICEF’s Honors Club in January 2024. At the time, the organization revealed that the K-pop idol made a generous donation of 100 Million Won to UNICEF. Moreover, the said amount was used to assist the underprivileged children in Laos.

In a statement released through the Korean Committee, the rapper said that his hope is for the children of Laos to grow up healthy and thrive in a safer environment.

After the news of his philanthropic act, Felix shared about his heartwarming experience to the fans through his Bubble account. 

“I got to know Laos well. The people are so kind and the country is beautiful”, the Stray Kids member wrote. “It’s really my happiness to be next to the kids and [be able to] help them,” he added.

In his interview for Harper’s Bazaar Japan, Felix also talked about his donation and volunteer work. According to the idol, since he received a lot of love from his fans and the people around him, he also wanted to return that love through his charitable activities.

Fans share how proud they are of Felix

Knowing that the singer went beyond his means and spent his holidays volunteering, his fans, especially Stray Kids’ fanbase, STAYs, can’t help but feel extremely proud of their idol.

On social media, fans showered the SKZ member with positive remarks and called him an “angel.”  Several STAYs also praised Felix for having such a warm heart and a kind soul.

 

Other fans also shared that their idol’s act of kindness encouraged them to do the same. “I’m definitely proud and inspired. I want to help as many people as I can too,” a netizen wrote.

 

Before this recent incident, Felix has been recognized for his constant philanthropic gestures. In the previous years, he has made headlines for making several donations for different causes and campaigns. Moreover, Felix was also recognized as part of the Save the Children’s Honors Club in 2023. 

Featured image: Felix performing during Stray Kids’ concert. Credit: Facebook/Stray Kids

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Red Velvet’s Wendy to Make Solo Comeback With ‘Wish You Hell’

Wendy in the concept photos of Red Velvet's 'Chill Kill.' Credit: Twitter/Red Velvet

Save the date, Reveluvs! Wendy will be returning with new music soon!

On Monday, February 19, K-pop girl group Red Velvet announced through their official social media accounts that member Wendy will be making her first solo comeback with the mini album Wish You Hell.

With this, the vocalist is making her return as a soloist after almost three years. In April 2021, Wendy released her first mini album Like Water. 

To recall, said album drew numerous for Wendy’s excellent singing abilities. As such, it topped the iTunes Top Album Chart in 33 regions around the world. In addition, the title track “Like Water” also won the “Best Ballad” award at the 31st Seoul Music Awards.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Ih5UArd4zk

Furthermore, SM Entertainment revealed that Wish You Hell will contain a total of 6 tracks including the title song of the same name. As per the agency, the album will showcase Wendy’s colorful music.

Fans excited for new album from Wendy 

Following the announcement, Red Velvet’s fanbase, Reveluvs, expressed their excitement on social media by trending the hashtag #SoloistWendyComeback.

“We are finally getting a new message from [Wendy]. I am so excited!” one fan wrote. Another mentioned that the “When This Rain Stops” singer is about to save the music industry with her six new songs.

https://twitter.com/perfectshon/status/1759408412440600654

Some Reveluvs also applauded the Red Velvet member’s  wide range with her album titles alone. One said that “Like Water” and “Wish You Hell” already shows the “duality” of Son Seungwan, the singer’s real name. 

To note, Wish You Hell, her second mini-album will officially be out on March 12. Additional details about it, however, are yet to be released.

In other news, Wendy currently acts as a judge in MNET’s ongoing survival show Build Up: Vocal Boy Group Survivor. In that variety show, she judges alongside fellow renowned vocalists Solar of MAMAMOO, Eunkwang of BtoB, soloists Baekho and Kim Jaehwan, and singer-songwriter Lee Seok Hoon. Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN’s main vocal, Seungkwan, also appeared as a special judge in one of its episodes.

Featured image: Wendy in the concept photos of Red Velvet’s ‘Chill Kill.’ Credit: Twitter/Red Velvet

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Zico ‘Apologizes’ for Starting the Dance Challenge Trend

TikTok challenges have taken the K-pop world by storm, with fans eagerly watching their biases participate in them. Zico is often credited with kickstarting this phenomenon, thanks to his “Any Song” challenge. The first time he did it, it was alongside MAMAMOO’s Hwasa. 

@kozico0914

#AnysongChallenge#ZICO #지코 #화사 #아무노래 #Anysong#아무노래나틀어주세요#KOZ

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – kozico0914 – kozico0914

He also did it with 2NE1’s Dara, among other artists.

@kozico0914

샵에서 우연히 만난 버전! #AnysongChallenge with #Dara #지코 #ZICO #Anysong #아무노래

♬ 아무노래 – ZICO

This trend, which began as a novel way to promote music, has evolved. It has since become a staple marketing strategy employed by different agencies to promote artists and their releases.

Zico expressed concern

During a recent episode of MBC’s Omniscient Interfering View, Zico opened up about his life as an artist and producer at KOZ Entertainment. It was then that he expressed concern over the trend. “Usually, singers rest or practice for their performance during the break. But nowadays, they have to meet up with their colleagues and film challenge videos. They also have to master all the others’ choreography. So I apologize now that I’m here,” Zico commented.

is this the ending of Kpop Challenges? Zico apologies to Kpop Idols

On platforms like Reddit, discussions flourished around Zico’s apology. Many acknowledged that the trend has become a double-edged sword. While it has led to increased visibility for underrated artists, some argue that the trend has gone too far.

Critics of the trend say that what began as a lighthearted interaction between idols has become a source of stress for them and their fans. After all, such challenges can fuel rivalries and expose idols to unnecessary criticism. As agencies and artists continue to depend on this trend as a marketing strategy, many hope that the essence of camaraderie and fun that once defined it can be restored. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Zico apologized almost as soon as the topic came up. Source: X/@hblfess.

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Netflix CEO Teases ‘Mindblowing’ Second Season of ‘Squid Game’

Netflix co-CEO Ted Sarandos recently made waves with his pronouncement about Squid Game season two. He stated it will “blow your mind.” This came after Sarandos’ visit to the show’s set in South Korea.

In a column on Netflix’s website, he wrote, “I couldn’t visit Korea without experiencing the production of one of our most anticipated shows of 2024—the second season of Squid Game. While I can’t share any spoilers, I can say the new games will blow your mind, and I was thrilled by the scale of the sets. Director Hwang’s vision is such a powerful example of how Korean—and non-English titles—can be locally authentic while finding new international audiences on Netflix.”

He praised the show’s director again at a press conference in Seoul. “We’re really excited about Mr. Hwang’s ability to push storytelling to new limits, more dynamic sets and more mind-blowing storylines that are going to thrill the entire world,” Sarandos said.

Netflix

Significant meetings

Sarandos’s trip was packed with significant meetings, including visits to the Seoul offices of Eyeline Studios and Scanline VFX. He also had productive discussions with Squid Game director Hwang Dong-hyuk, lead actor Lee Jung-jae, and President Yoon Suk Yeol.

“It was my honor to meet President Yoon, together with Squid Game star Lee Jung-jae, to reaffirm our commitment to the industry and to the next generation of Korean creatives,” Sarandos remarked. “We are investing significantly in Korea, and believe that working with best-in-class local industry partners is only the beginning.”

The commitment to nurturing new talent is evident in Netflix’s initiatives, such as the Netflix VFX Academy internship program in South Korea. This program funds VFX artists and points them to work opportunities with Netflix’s partner companies. Sarandos proudly noted, “Seventy percent of the graduates from the program’s first session have since been hired by Netflix partners.”

Netflix

Korean content on Netflix

Looking forward, Sarandos shared ambitious plans for Korean content on Netflix. “One in five Netflix titles in Korea will come from a first-time writer or director,” he wrote in his column. “Last year, that included the creators behind Black Knight, Doona!, Siren: Survive the Island, and Unlocked. This year, we’re providing a global stage for the first-time filmmakers behind Bandland Hunters, My Name is Loh Kiwan, The Bequeathed, and The Frog. 

He also took time to address speculation regarding an American remake of Squid Game, clarifying that no such remake is in the works.

As Netflix prepares to unveil season two of Squid Game, fans worldwide are eager to see if Sarandos is right. Because he called the storyline “mindblowing,” anticipation for the show’s return is higher than ever. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sarandos had fun interacting with young VFX artists at the new Eyeline Studios VFX Korea office. Source: Netflix.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT’s Doyoung Reportedly Making Solo Debut This Year

SM Entertainment has announced that Doyoung, known for his role as a vocalist in NCT, is preparing to release his first solo album. Following in the footsteps of fellow NCT members Taeyong and Ten, Doyoung’s solo debut is highly anticipated, though the release date of his album remains under wraps. All his agency said was that it will drop in the first half of 2024.

Doyoung has carved out a place all his own within NCT, a boy group known for its unique structure. NCT has an unlimited number of members and multiple sub-units based in various cities worldwide. He has been a vital part of several of these sub-units. He was in NCT U, a rotational unit whose members can be changed depending on the song the unit is promoting. He’s in NCT 127, the fixed Seoul-based unit that focuses on hip-hop. His vocal skills have allowed him to contribute significantly to NCT‘s music and performances.

@dolcegabbana

The new #DGSS24 Men’s Collection starring #DolceGabbana Global Ambassador Doyoung.

♬ suono originale – Dolce & Gabbana

What else has Doyoung been up to?

In other news, Doyoung recently made headlines by appearing in a new Dolce and Gabbana campaign. Fans were thrilled to see photos from the campaign showing him wearing different looks from the luxury brand’s newest collection. The fits he wore included a classic white and black double-breasted pinstripe Sicilia-fit jacket and trousers. He also put on a coffee brown cotton V-neck polo shirt with matching tailored two-way stretch twill pants.

Finally, Doyoung impressed with elegant white and beige suits, earning praise from NCTzens for his “aesthetic beauty. Some even called him a “prince” and a “jewel of real beauty.”

Doyoung’s upcoming solo debut is not just a milestone in his career but also a testament to his immense talent as an artist and a performer. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of his first solo album, confident that it’ll showcase his artistry in new and exciting ways. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Doyoung will surely flex his powerful voice on his solo album. Source: X/@NCTupdating.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Meet ‘Candy Shop’: All About Brave Entertainment’s New Girl Group

Brave Entertainment has released a handful of dance videos featuring its new four-member girl group, Candy Shop. The agency is showing off the quartet’s dancing and singing on the group’s new YouTube channel, which already has over 1,500 subscribers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeHDs_aaTiI

Candy Shop (캔디샵) – Dance Performance #1

Candy Shop (캔디샵) – Dance Performance #2

Brave Entertainment also introduced Candy Shop‘s vibrant pink logo, symbolizing the group’s colorful music. The logo features candies bouncing all over the screen, hinting at the group’s dynamic future. 

Founded by Brave Brothers, a former YG Entertainment composer and producer, Brave Entertainment has made a mark in K-pop since its establishment in 2008. Based in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea, the company has previously launched successful groups like DKB and Brave Girls of “Rollin’” fame. Now, they’re getting ready to do it all over again with Candy Shop.

Candy Shop (캔디샵) OFFICIAL LOGO MOTION

Meet the Candy Shop girls

Candy Shop‘s lineup includes Sui, a 16-year-old who first caught attention on the survival show My Teenage Girl, where she was eliminated in episode 9. Brave Entertainment says she’s a fantastic dancer who’s the mood maker of the group. Next, there’s Sarang, also 16. Previously a trainee at P NATION, Sarang is known for her stage presence. Brave Entertainment calls her the “hidden card” of the group because she has many talents.

Soram, 19, made her acting debut in DKB‘s “All Yours” MV and attended the SL Studio Academy. After passing Brave Entertainment’s final round of auditions in 2021, Soram is expected to charm fans with her acting, dancing, and soulful voice. Yuina, the only Japanese member, whose birth date remains undisclosed, is celebrated for her attractive vocals and visuals.

Candy Shop‘s debut promotions began when Brave Entertainment revealed the deeper meaning behind the group’s name. It came from the words “CAtch aND Draw Youth,” which symbolizes the members’ goal to forge a strong connection with audiences. Brave Brothers and the rest of Brave Entertainment have poured everything into these girls, hoping to replicate the success of their previous groups. 

Candy Shop is set to debut in the first half of 2024. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These girls are more than just ‘Brave Girls 2.0.’ They have talent and a charm that’s all their own. Source: X/@BRAVE_CandyShop.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Lee Hyori Delivers Commencement Address at Her Alma Mater

Singer Lee Hyori recently addressed her juniors at Kookmin University’s graduation ceremony. An alumna of the university’s School of Performing Arts, she found fame with the first-generation K-pop girl group, Fin.K.L, in 1998. She went solo in 2003, dropping bangers like “10 Minutes” and “U-Go-Girl.”

During the ceremony, attended by around 400 people, the singer and TV host reflected on her undergraduate days. “Twenty-six years ago, I arrived with dreams of becoming a famous figure,” she told her audience. “Back then, I lacked exceptional talent in acting, singing, or even physical attractiveness. Not much has changed, but here I am, still going strong.”

She offered graduates advice drawn from her personal experiences. “People sometimes don’t listen to their close friends, parents, or even the words of wise people. So why would you need to listen to someone lecturing you just because they’re famous? Just go and follow your heart. The person that’s going to cherish you and properly guide you down the right path is no one other than you.”

@halcyonmagazine

가수 이효리가 국민대에 방문하여 졸업생들에게 전한 연설문 중 제일 인상깊은 장면. “여러분을 누구보다 아끼고 올바른 길로 인도하는 건 그 누구도 아닌 여러분 자신”입니다.❤️ ⠀ <English> The most impressive scene from singer Lee Hyori’s speech delivered to the graduates of Kookmin University: “The one who cherishes and guides you more than anyone else is none other than yourself.”❤️ ⠀ <中文> 最令人印象深刻的一幕来自歌手李孝利在国民大学毕业生面前的演讲：“比任何人都更珍惜你们并指引你们走向正确道路的人，除了你们自己，没有其他人。”❤️ ⠀ 📸: 국민대학교 ⠀ #leehyori #leehyolee #leehyoriedits #fyp #kookminuniversity #이효리 #이효리연설 #이효리명언 #국민대학교 #동기부여 #동기부여명언 #李孝利 #李孝利語錄

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – HALCYONMAGAZINE – HALCYONMAGAZINE

Lee Hyori gave the perfect commencement address

She also advised students to believe in themselves. “Sometimes, I get affected by negative, self-sabotaging voices in my head, telling me I’m weak, stupid, or someone that can’t improve. But there are also voices guiding me to the right path, telling me that I’m doing my best and I deserve love. Try to listen to those voices. You might not be able to hear them right away, but you will if you believe in yourself.”

Finally, Lee Hyori reminded them that experience is the best teacher. “Words mean nothing. Only things you experience and go through in life will become yours. Go out into the world, get hurt, and learn in the process. I’ll always be giving you my warmest support.” She ended with a performance of her hit “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” drawing applause from the crowd.

Having her speak that day probably meant a lot to the graduates. After all, she went from studying at Kookmin University to a successful career in music. Her speech was enriched by the wisdom of one who walked in their shoes and emerged triumphant. It showed them that anything is possible if they believe in themselves. She inspired, motivated, and prepared the graduates for the next chapter of their lives. It was the perfect commencement address. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Lee Hyori’s speech was by turns funny, inspiring, and moving. Source: X/@netizenbuzz.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Hanteo Music Awards Marred by Safety and Other Issues

The recently concluded Hanteo Music Awards featured a star-studded lineup of performers and presenters. However, it became a trending topic on social media for reasons completely unrelated to the artists or their performances. A series of bizarre incidents overshadowed the event, leading to widespread criticism of the organizers for their apparent lack of crowd management and safety protocols.

@talkabout_kpop

មេីលតែទឹកមុខ idol ក៏កាត់ន័យយល់😓 talking about what happened on the show (hantea music awards2024) #hanteomusicaward2024 #kpop #fyp

♬ Funny – Gold-Tiger

One incident involved a fan allegedly defecating in the standing section, causing chaos among audience members. Additionally, there were reports of an elementary school child urinating in the mosh pit, further contributing to the unsanitary conditions. Idols and fans alike struggled with the situation, with many covering their noses to block out the unpleasant smells. Although many initially refused to believe these reports, multiple attendees confirmed the incidents through photos and videos.

The day after the event, a fan came forward and admitted to being the one who pooped. However, they posted another tweet hours later in which they appeared to retract their statement.

 

The 2024 Hanteo Music Awards was crazy

Security at the event was also criticized. Fans reported that security guards failed to effectively manage the crowd, with idols like aespa and ATEEZ having to step in to instruct the guards on maintaining order. Things escalated when fans began pushing and shoving each other. After ZEROBASEONE performed, someone in the crowd called for Kim Jiwoong to leave the group. Fights broke out in the mosh pit afterwards.

@jaehyunboynextdoor

ATEEZ AND AESPA LOOK SO CONCERN BECAUSE OF THE HANTEO AWARD CROWD 😭😭 #hanteomusicaward #hanteomusicawards2024 #한터뮤직어워즈 #aespa #ateez #karina #hongjoong #mingi #giselle #ningning #winter #awardshow #fyp #fypシ #kpop #kpopfyp #foryou #foryoupage #incident #poop #sunghanbin #idolreaction #kpopidol #hanteoawards2024 #hanteoaward2024 #reaction #추천 #おすすめ #アイドル

♬ Drama – aespa

The chaos didn’t stop there. One fan fainted after they were hit by a lightstick, and disturbingly, attendees found used condoms in the trash, suggesting that some engaged in sexual activities during the performances. Everything that happened raised serious questions about the organizers’ ability to pull off large-scale events, not to mention the safety of those in attendance.

The 2024 Hanteo Music Awards will definitely be remembered, but for all the wrong reasons. The organizers have yet to respond to these reports, leaving the K-pop community awaiting answers. Many are calling for assurances that future events will be properly managed to prevent such unacceptable incidents. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The ceremony was a complete and utter disaster. Source: X/@skpblive.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EL7Z UP’s Yeeun Celebrates First Anniversary of Solo Debut

Singer Yeeun, formerly of CLC, is gearing up to mark a significant milestone in her music career. Come April, it will be one year since she made her solo debut. Her journey has seen her go from a group member to a solo artist with an identity all her own. To commemorate this occasion, Yeeun will mount an event in Tokyo. YEEUN Solo Debut 1st Anniversary Photo Signing Event in Japan will take place at Iino Hall in Tokyo on April 14. It will serve as a celebration of her career and a heartfelt thank-you to the fans who supported her through the years.

[MV] 예은 (YEEUN) “Strange Way To Love”

Yeeun’s solo career began with the release of her debut EP, The Beginning, a project that aimed to showcase a broader spectrum of her artistry and personality. This was a significant shift from her days with CLC, where the group’s concepts often overshadowed the members’ individual identities. The Beginning had two songs, “Cherry Coke” and “Strange Way to Love,” each representing different sides of Yeeun. “Cherry Coke” blended the sweetness of cherry with the kick of coke, symbolizing the mix of her past and present selves. Meanwhile, “Strange Way to Love” offered a more introspective look at the relationship between artists and their fans.

Will you celebrate with Yeeun in Tokyo?

Embarking on a solo career made Yeeun excited yet nervous. Performing alone, without the familiar presence of her group members, proved to be challenging. However, it also gave her the creative freedom to explore various concepts and genres. Collaborating with producer Ryan Jhun, Yeeun carved out a unique niche for herself in the music industry, drawing on her experiences and insights from her time with CLC.

[MV] 예은 (YEEUN) “Cherry Coke”

Yeeun‘s journey began in 2015 with CLC‘s debut EP, First Love. Despite the group’s disbandment in 2022, she continued to pursue her passion for music. These days, aside from her solo career, she’s also in the project group EL7Z UP, formed through Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle. EL7Z UP has seven members including Yeeun herself. Since releasing their first EP, 7+UP, they have appeared at KCON Saudi Arabia and the 2023 MAMA Awards.

The event she’s mounting in Japan is not just a reflection of everything she’s achieved in the past year. It’s also a testament to her artistic and personal growth. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Will you celebrate with Yeeun in Tokyo? Source: X/@sbsnoriter.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jungkook Wins ‘The Male Artist’ Award at the 2024 PCAs

On February 18, 2024, BTS‘s Jungkook bagged the Male Artist of the Year award at the 49th People’s Choice Awards. The ceremony, which took place in Santa Monica, California, was a night to remember. The Barker Hangar rang with applause and cheers for all who won awards. Hosted by actor Simu Liu, the event was broadcast live on NBC and E! News. A live stream available on Peacock allowed fans to witness the proceedings in real-time.

Jungkook was nominated in four categories, including Pop Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, and Collaboration Song of the Year. His Male Artist of the Year victory was particularly significant as he became the first Asian to win that particular category at the People’s Choice Awards. He beat out artists like Bad Bunny, Drake, his “3D” collaborator Jack Harlow, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, and The Weeknd. This win underscores his popularity, as fan votes determine the outcome of the People’s Choice Awards.

BTS Jung Kook and Stray Kids win People’s Choice Awards

Jungkook continues to make an impact

Fans expressed their joy on social media, congratulating the “Standing Next to You” singer for making history yet again. This victory follows Jungkook‘s win for Collaboration Song of the Year at the 2022 People’s Choice Awards for his song “Left and Right” with Charlie Puth. That means BTS’s golden maknae has two consecutive People’s Choice Awards wins under his belt. It’s remarkable that even as Jungkook serves in the South Korean military, his impact on the international music scene remains strong.

Looking ahead, Jungkook earned nominations in four categories at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards on April 1, 2024. He’s up for Best Music Video, Favorite Debut Album, K-Pop Artist of the Year, and K-Pop Song of the Year. Unfortunately, because he’s off in the 5th Infantry Division with fellow BTS member Jimin, he won’t be performing at the ceremony. But that’s fine because Jungkook has a good chance of winning at least one of those awards anyway. Who knows, if the stars align, he could win all four! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook left top artists in the dust and made history at the same time. Source: X/@calvinklein.

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