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SHINee’s Key and IVE’s Yujin in Teasers for ‘Crime Scene Returns’

Seven years since the release of the well-loved Crime Scene in 2014, the variety program is now set to make its highly-anticipated return as Crime Scene Returns

To recall, Crime Scene is the first-ever RPG (Role-Playing Game) show in South Korea. In this variety program, the guests take on different roles to solve a case. Its first season aired in May 2014, with JBTC launching its second season in April 2015 and third season in April 2017. 

In July 2023, TVING announced that the well-loved is making a comeback. But this time, it will feature a new version and new cast.  

For its new season, the dynamic lineup was revealed to have Key of SHINee and IVE’s Yujin. In the official posters, the two idols were seen striking a pose in a mug-shot-like setting.

The two will be joined by the show’s original cast members Jang Jin, Park Ji Yoon, and Jang Do Min. Meanwhile, actress Joo Hyun Young will also be a new addition to the program.

Aside from the cast, fans are also excited for the treatment in Crime Scene Returns. In a press release, the production team teased: “As the story gets closer to the truth, the story unfolds with twists and turns.”

Fans’ excitement for ‘Crime Scene Returns’

Since it was first announced, netizens have expressed their excitement in seeing how the three new additions will aid in solving the cases. Especially since Key, Hyun Young, and Yujin have already been acknowledged for their respective skills in variety shows.

First, the SHINee member is known to take part in several shows such as the long-running program Amazing Saturday and I Live Alone. Meanwhile, the IVE leader received attention for her fun personality in Na PD’s Earth Arcade series. As for Hyun Young, she has gained popularity for her SNL Korea stints. 

In a pre-released teaser of Crime Scene Returns, both Key and Yujin already showed a hint of their chemistry as the cast played a mafia game. In this clip, the two idols played as the mafias who needed to complete a given mission. Playing as a perfect duo, Yujin unintentionally helped Key in his mission. Although by doing so, she failed hers. 

Crime Scene Returns will premiere on TVING on February 9.

Featured image: Key and Yunjin in the character teasers for ‘Crime Scene Returns.’ Credit: Twitter/TVING

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Ex-LABOUM’s Yulhee Updates Fans About Her Life Post-Divorce

A month after publicizing her divorce, Yulhee is back to share a life update!

On her personal Instagram account, former LABOUM member Kim Yulhee shared a photo alongside a personal caption about her life post-divorce. “These days, I’m spending my time doing the things I’ve wanted to do. I’m going to try to slowly fill my Instagram with the things I like,” the singer wrote positively.

 

The update came after Yulhee announced in December 2023 that she and husband, FT Island’s Minhwan, have decided to go separate ways after five years of marriage. To recall, the two stars, who were wedded in 2018, have three children together.

At the time, both artists shared their lengthy and heartfelt posts on their respective social media accounts.

As for her part, Yulhee explained that they decided to support each other on their separate paths after trying and communicating for a long time. “Although our journey as a married couple ends here, as parents to our children, it does not,” the singer said. Moreover, Yulhee promised that they’re both committed to doing their best to take care of their children. 

On the other hand, Minhwan began by expressing his gratitude to their supporters. In his statement, he also apologized for making the difficult decision of separating. However, he reassured their fans and relatives that he will continue to fulfill his responsibilities as a father. I will do my best to prevent our children from experiencing emotional distress,” Minhwan said. 

More about Yulhee and Minhwan

Prior to being a celebrity couple, both Yulhee and Minhwan were active as idols.

In particular, Yulhee debuted as a member of the girl group LABOUM in 2014. After which, she also started her acting debut in 2016. Since then, she has appeared in a number of dramas.

Meanwhile, Minhwan is a well-known singer and actor under FNC Entertainment. It was in 2007 when he made his debut as a member of the rock band FT Island

In 2017, the relationship between the two singers became public after both admitted that they were dating. Following the revelation, Yulhee left LABOUM in the same year. 

Moreover, the two welcomed their first-born son in May 2018 and subsequently registered their marriage in October that year. In 2020, the couple was blessed with the birth of twin daughters.

Throughout their marriage, both Yulhee and Minhwan remained in the spotlight. Sharing their journey as a family, the couple appeared on numerous variety shows together with their three children.

Following the news of their divorce, the two shared that they have come up with a mutual decision to let the children stay in Minhwan’s custody. 

Featured image: Yulhee updates fans with a new photo. Credit: Instagram/Yulhee

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BLACKPINK’s Lisa to Perform With Lamoureux Orchestra in Paris

Buckle up, BINKs! Lisa of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK is about to conquer a different stage!

On January 26, the K-pop superstar will be gracing the stage at the Le Gala des Pièces Jaunes benefit concert in Paris. Moreover, her performance will be accompanied by the popular Lamoureux Orchestra.

On their X account, the orchestra shared the exciting news of the upcoming collaboration. “It is with great pleasure that the musicians of the Lamoureux Orchestra will once again share the stage with BLACKPINK’s Lisa during this event concert,” they wrote.

To note, this will be the idol’s second time performing  with the orchestra at the same venue. In January 2023, Lisa together with her BLACKPINK members, captivated the audience with their striking performances of the hit tracks Shut Down” and Pink Venom.”

However, for this year, she will be coming back as a solo act instead. With this, the Thai rapper will be among the powerful lineup of renowned international stars. Some who were confirmed to participate in the concert are Maroon 5, ASAP ROCKY, JJ Balvin, Swae Lee, Vianney, and a lot more.

BLINKs proud and excited for solo ventures of Lisa

As Lisa makes a significant return in the Le Gala des Pièces Jaunes event, fans, especially BLINKs, can’t help but be proud and excited for her solo ventures.

On social media, fans said that they can’t wait to see the historical performance of the “Lalisa singer with the orchestra. “Can’t believe we will see Lisa perform at this gala again but this time as a soloist,” one fan wrote.

Other fans also showed their admiration as the K-pop star continues to expand her horizons as a performer. “She is doing something new every time she’s on stage. And honestly it’s so hard to predict what she will do this time,” one said. Another added that whatever Lisa does, she definitely never disappoints.

Knowing that the Le Gala des Pièces Jaunes is a benefit concert, fans have also applauded the multi-talented idol as she continues to showcase her commitment to both her work and charitable causes. 

In 2023, the BLACKPINK member also made history as the first K-pop idol to perform at the Crazy Horse Cabaret in Paris. For those unfamiliar, it is a well-known cabaret famous for its alluring stage performances featuring nude female dancers.

Aside from the Le Gala des Pièces Jaunes benefit concert, there’s not much detail yet about Lisa’s next activities. However, it can be recalled that she and the rest of BLACKPINK members have decided to continue their group activities with YG Entertainment. But, the artist’s individual activities will no longer be handled by the agency. 

As of writing, Lisa has yet to announce her plans about solo activities. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK attends the Korean State Banquet at the Buckingham Palace. Credit: Instagram/Lisa

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YG Entertainment Plans To Launch Another Group in 2024

It seems like powerhouse K-pop label YG Entertainment has big plans for 2024. According to its founder Yang Hyun-suk, their plans for the year include launching a new group. And, the director said, it might not even be limited to one group only!

“We are setting a goal to announce at least one new group within this year,” YG Entertainment said in a press release. Furthermore, the agency announced that this project aims to discover and nurture global rookies selected through both local and overseas auditions.

In 2023, it can be recalled that YG Entertainment has announced that they will be holding auditions throughout South Korea in 2024. Currently, the agency has kicked off their National Audition Tour in early January. Moreover, the audition is set to make stops at different parts of the country.

Although there’s no official details yet about the said group, fans are anticipating to have another addition to the growing family of YG Entertainment. To recall, the agency is home to powerhouse K-pop acts such as WINNER, BLACKPINK and AKMU. Among their rookie groups are TREASURE and BABYMONSTER. 

As for their previous artists, the list includes BIGBANG, 2NE1, EPIK HIGH, and iKON.

YG Entertainment and its plans for existing groups

To ensure that 2024 is a successful year in terms of both music and profit, Yang added that they plan to secure new growth engines through their artists’ activities this year. 

As for the agency’s existing groups, Yang made the surprise announcement of Ahyeon’s return to BABYMONSTER. To recall, the rookie girl group debuted with only six members in November. At the time, the agency notified the public of Ahyeon’s hiatus for health reasons.

Initially, BABYMONSTER is slated to release the new digital single Stuck in the Middlein February. After that, the group has earlier announced their plans for a mini-EP. With Ahyeon returning, Yang said that the album will be re-recorded with all seven members. 

As for its boy group TREASURE, Yang announced that the 10-member act will start preparing new music after touring. Currently, the B.O.M.Bsingers are in the midst of their second Japanese Tour Reboot, with its last stop scheduled in late February.

However, the agency notably didn’t disclose any details about upcoming plans for BLACKPINK. In early January, it was confirmed that the four members—Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa—didn’t renew their individual contracts with the agency. Although, YG Entertainment has earlier announced that all group activities will still be handled by them. 

Featured image: Here are the current roster of artists under YG Entertainment. Credit: Website/YG Family

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IVE Opens up on Collaborating With Saweetie for ‘All Night’

K-pop girl group IVE and American rapper Saweetie teamed up for the recently released single “All Night.” And the act from Starship Entertainment had nothing but praises for their experience working in the collaboration. 

On January 19, the single “All Night” was released. For those unaware, the crossover between IVE and Saweetie was a remake of Icona Pop’s 2013 hit single of the same title.

In the official music video, IVE members Yujin, Wonyoung, Rei, Liz, Gaeul and Leeseo were seen throwing an office party while dressed in sweet and chic clothes. Then, Saweetie made her appearance in an elegant outfit and soon joined the group’s fun.

Aside from it being a collaborative track with Saweetie, All Night” also serves as IVE’s first-ever full English single. Compared to other K-pop releases, said track also took a different style as it did not feature any individual lines for the members.

IVE on their first collaboration

When asked about the collaboration with Saweetie, the IVE members shared that they had fun filming the music video and working with the American rapper. 

In an interview with Teen Vogue, Yujin revealed that she was initially unaware of Icona Pop’s original version of the song. Additionally, the group’s leader said that she thought the song was familiar but she could not point out exactly where she heard it.

Meanwhile, Leeseo said that they were thankful and honored to have the American rapper take part on “All Night.”  She then explained that Saweetie’s voice and rap part in the song added a perfect touch to the track.

One of the members, Wonyoung, also shared that she “freaked out” upon learning that they will be working with Saweetie. “I really love her song. So I was excited and thrilled to work with her,” she said. 

Aside from that, Wonyoung also shared about their interaction with the rapper once the filming ended. According to the 19-year-old idol, they were so happy to see her and that they got individual selfies with Saweetie after the shoot.

“It’s our first time doing a collaboration with another artist. And we were so happy to hear it was with Saweetie. We were so enthusiastic about working with her,” Wonyoung added.

Aside from the release of All Night,” the “Baddie” singers are also busy preparing for the continuation of their first world tour Show What I Have. In 2024, IVE is set to conquer the stages across Asia, South America, Europe, and many more.

Featured image: Saweetie and IVE pose together after filming the music video of ‘All Night.’ Credit: Twitter/IVE

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Kim Jaejoong Calls Out Sasaengs, Asks Them to Stop the Obsessive Behavior

On Monday, January 22, Kim Jaejoong vented out about his sasaeng fans’ persistent stalking.

Through his personal Instagram account, the singer expressed his frustration about the obsessive behavior of these so-called stalker fans. For those who don’t know, sasaeng is a K-pop slang term used to refer to hardcore supporters who invade the artists’ personal space and private lives.

In a series of posts, the veteran idol exposed clips of “sasaeng taxis” fans’ use to stalk him. In his translated caption, Jaejoong wrote: “The drivers follow me relentlessly, saying that they do have to do what the passengers tell them to do.” 

In a detailed explanation, Jaejoong disclosed that these drivers profit off him by causing him emotional distress. He said that these “sasaeng taxis” wait at every section and coordinate with one another through radio, as if it was a mission to know his whereabouts.

According to the 37-year old singer, he still vividly recalls the frightening words of these sasaengs claiming that they will visit the wedding venue once Jaejoong gets married.

Furthermore, the former TVXQ member also revealed that it has been 20 years since he had these stalker fans. Since making his debut in 2004, Jaejoong shared that he had several unfortunate experiences with sasaengs. At one point, he disclosed, he even had to check the people behind him when eating, to ensure no one was trailing him.

After having enough of the emotional distress brought upon by these incidents, the idol asked the stalkers to stop this disturbing behavior.  “It’s been 20 years. Let’s put an end to this,” he said. 

Moreover, the singer also sent a warning to these sasaengs that he has obtained “footage” of their activities and will let law punish these offenders.

Aside from Jaejoong, other celebrities speak out against stalker fans

Aside from his personal experience, the idol also lamented on how it can be a common behavior among fans in the K-pop industry. With this, Jaejoong wished that none of his hoobaes or juniors would get to experience the disturbing practices of these obsessive fans.

Although Jaejoong courageously spoke against his stalkers and hoped no other celebrity goes through the same trouble, the sasaeng behavior is apparently a common problem within the Korean entertainment community. 

As such, the harassed idols and actors are then prompted to take the necessary legal measures

Recently, the notorious stalker of Apink’s Jeong Eunji was sentenced to prison after creeping up on the singer-actress since 2020.

Moreover, EXO members Baekhyun and Sehun also conveyed their annoyance towards these sasaeng acts. For instance, Baekhyun revealed that he was once visited by a sasaeng in his vocal lesson classes. Meanwhile, Sehun said that he approximately gets about 100 calls per day.

Following the numerous instances of celebrities getting stalked, agencies have promised to take the appropriate actions to protect their artists without showing leniency to the perpetrators.

Featured image: INKODE Entertainment releases new company profile photos of Jaejoong. Credit: Twitter/Kim Jaejoong

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Awww! IOI Members Reunite to Celebrate the Holidays

Here’s a lovely treat for you, IOI fans! On Monday, January 22, soloist Jeon Somi surprised the K-pop world with a video of her mini-reunion with disbanded project girl group IOI. 

In her Youtube vlog titled “2023 MAMA Behind & Merry Mungchismas,” the members were seen celebrating the holidays together.

In a series of clips, the Fast Forwardsinger shared fun clips from their gathering that proved their close bond. Moreover, members Kim Sejeong, Chung Ha, Lim Nayoung, Mina, Doyeon, Yoojung and Yeonjung were seen coming together to celebrate the Christmas party hosted by Somi.

As this is their first reunion in a while, the idols shared that they took extra time and effort to meet up. Although it was a difficult task, Somi said that she prepared the dishes the members wanted to try. On the other hand, Chung Ha brought gifts for everyone. 

At the end of the video, the IOI members all sent their holiday greetings for the viewers. “Merry Christmas and Happy New Year! Let’s be happy!”, the girls said in unison.

Fans’ reaction over the mini-gathering of IOI

After seeing clips of the girls’ mini-reunion, fans couldn’t help but become emotional. On social media, many supporters expressed their delight in seeing the members’ closeness. Others are also moved that they remain to be supportive of each other despite no longer being part of a group. 

One fan wrote: “Y’all don’t know how much this makes me happy. Some fans also pointed out that the vlog was probably IOI’s first time making a public appearance in recent years. In 2021, the group reunited for a live broadcast during their fifth debut anniversary. 

Furthermore, several fans also became hopeful for the possibility of a reunion comeback in the future. Another stated that she can’t wait for an OT11 reunion as members Chaeyeon, Sohye, and Kyulyung were unable to attend Somi’s holiday party for the group.

https://twitter.com/Rinaaaa47590236/status/1749321171794026712

 

For those who don’t know, IOI was a project girl group formed through the survival show Produce 101. After making their official debut in May 2016, the group had to disband in January 2017. Notably, they only had around eight months of promotions.

Throughout their career, IOI received a lot of support from both local and international fans. Among their best known tracks are Very Very Very,” “Pick Me,” andDownpour.”

As of writing, the IOI members are embarking on their respective careers. Some have pursued careers as solo artists, while others entered the world of acting.

Featured image: Jeon Somi shares through a vlog her recent reunion with fellow IOI members. Credit: YouTube/Jeon Somi

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GOT7’s Bambam to Host New Netflix Show ‘Super Rich in Korea’

Mark your calendars! A new variety show that will be hosted by BamBam is on the way!

On Tuesday, January 23, Netflix Korea announced that GOT7’s BamBam will be hosting Super Rich in Korea. Moreover, he will be joined by Oh My Girl member Mimi and comedian Jo Se Ho in the upcoming reality program.

In the teasers, viewers are given a glimpse of the luxurious lifestyle of the wealthiest people residing in South Korea. 

According to a press release, the show will feature prominent figures from different fields. Some of which are luxury brand ambassador Yoo Hee Ra, who has been dubbed as South Korea’s Paris Hilton, Singaporean billionaire David Yong, Arab’s social media sensation Noor Naim, and many more.

As teased by the streaming platform, Super Rich in Korea will show the glamorous reality of these people’s astonishing wealth. From extravagant parties, luxury cars, and haute coutures, the program will treat viewers with an exclusive insight of the super rich’s norm.

 Super Rich in Korea is slated to premiere this April. As of writing, a final premiere date has yet to be announced.

BamBam exhibiting his talent in hosting

Aside from Super Rich in Korea, the “Sour & Sweet singer is set to host another upcoming show titled Siblings’ Relationship.

To note, Siblings’ Relationship, which will be out in March, is a dating reality show where siblings try to find romantic relationships for each other. Moreover, BamBam will be joined by (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon, and music producer Code Kunst. Also part of the hosting panel are TV personality Han Hye Jin and famous siblings Jonathan and Patricia.

Aside from the host lineup, Siblings’ Relationship has also raised viewers’ expectations as it is revealed to be led by producer Lee Jin Joo. Prior to this new show, Lee has already left a milestone in handling dating programs as she’s been in charge of the successful series Transit Love.

In Siblings’ Relationship, BamBam got the chance to work with producer Lee as one of the main hosts in its second season. 

Aside from variety programs, BamBam has also exhibited his hosting skills through other opportunities such as music shows and awarding ceremonies. Moreover, the GOT7 member also hosts his own Youtube program Bam’s House, where he invites friends and colleagues in the entertainment industry for a small talk.

Featured image: Netflix Korea announces the new show ‘Super Rich in Korea.’ Credit: Twitter/Netflix Korea

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Mnet Unveils Contestant Photos for ‘Build Up’ Vocal Survival Show

Forty contestants will participate in Mnet’s upcoming survival show, Build Up. Among them are current and former idols, idol trainees, and some musical actors. They’re all competing for a spot in a vocals-focused boy group. Build Up, set to premiere this Friday, is Mnet’s first survival show of 2024. Its goal is to form a quartet whose main strength is their combined vocal ability.

The show features a distinguished panel of judges, including Baekho, BTOB’s Seo Eun-kwang, Kim Jae-hwan, MAMAMOO’s Solar, Red Velvet’s Wendy, and vocal group SG Wannabe’s Lee Seok-hoon, with model and actress Lee Da-hee hosting.

“There are countless K-pop survival programs, so the show has differentiated itself by focusing on vocals,” said producer Ma Doo-sik. “Build Up is different in that we focus 100 percent on the vocal abilities of the contestants.”

Instagram/@mnet_official

The host and judges speak

Wendy shared her thoughts on the show’s focus: “A group focused on the vocal aspect needs members who cannot only sing well on their own but also harmonize well with others and know how to work as a group. I felt that each performance by the contestants was different with each stage, so I am a bit worried about how my judging skills will appear to viewers.”

Seo Eun-kwang, known for giving tough critiques, said this of his approach to judging: “I think I became more sensitive, and my standards were higher because a lot of the contestants I was judging were colleagues I’ve performed on stage with. Some contestants lacked vocal skills when we began shooting Build Up, but as we continued filming, there were so many cases where I got goosebumps from the singing.”

Survival show veterans Baekho and Kim Jae-hwan agreed that stern feedback is necessary to help all the contestants grow. Baekho reflected on his own experience, stating, “I understand what the contestants are going through. That makes me more sincere and leaves me giving harsher pointers, because I want them to do well in the end.”

Lee Da-hee, the host, highlighted the allure of survival programs.  She teased the exceptional talent pool that Build Up has, sparking curiosity about the hidden gems among the contestants. “You get immersed in the show when the contestants are very talented.”

[#빌드업/1회 선공개] 두 귀👂를 의심하고 또 의심하게 만드는 무대

The ‘Build Up’ contestants

The 40 contestants, announced on Monday, boast a mix of impressive backgrounds. This includes Boys Planet alums Jay Chang from boy band ONEPACT, Lee Hwan-hee from UP10TION, and Wumuti. Joining them are Woong from AB6IX, Seunghun from CIX, Kang Seok-hwa from WEi, Lee Dong-hun from A.C.E, and Bain from JUST B

Also participating is soloist Choi Su-hwan, known for his appearance on Produce X 101 in 2019. Additionally, Taehwan from VANNER, the winner of JTBC’s Peak Time, is a contestant. The show also features musical actors Jo Hwan-ji, Kim Seo-hyung, and Choi Ha-ram, alongside non-celebrity contestants.

In a preview for the first episode, Lee Da-hee talked about the show’s format. She explained that each of the 40 contestants assigned his own voice to one of four categories. There’s “Allround” with 12 contestants, “Soul” with 10, “Power” with 7, and “Unique” with 11. This categorization highlights the diverse styles present in the competition, setting the stage for a dynamic and varied showcase of skills.

Mnet’s Build Up is poised to be a groundbreaking addition to the K-Pop survival show genre. Its premiere is set for January 26 at 10:00 PM KST. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This show is set to be a singing showdown for the ages! Source: YouTube/@Mnet.

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TWS Lands Endorsement Deal With Beverage Brand Milkis

PLEDIS Entertainment’s new boy group marked a major milestone three days before their official debut. On January 19, the agency announced that TWS—composed of leader Shinyu and members Dohoon, Hanjin, Jihoon, Kyungmin, and Youngjae—secured a high-profile endorsement deal for the beverage brand Milkis.

Fizzy Drink Milky Twist | Lotte Milkis

Milkis is a unique soft drink produced by Lotte Chilsung, a well-known beverage company in South Korea. Launched in 1989, Milkis stands out because it combines traditional elements of carbonated beverages with milk to create a distinctive creamy taste. One of the most notable aspects of Milkis is its wide range of flavors. It comes in apple, banana, grape, mango, muskmelon, orange, peach, pineapple, strawberry, and of course, regular.

Its primary target market is the youth, especially students looking for something refreshing to drink during a study break. Even so, Milkis has become popular with various age groups. Its appeal has transcended South Korean borders, attracting fans in countries like Hong Kong, Russia, and the US. This is most likely due to its caffeine-free and preservative-free nature, which makes it a healthier alternative to ordinary sodas.

Milkis and TWS are aligned

Like Milkis, TWS aims to bring something new to the music scene with its unique genre of “boyhood pop.” Their goal is to evoke pleasant emotions through music characterized by sparkling, refreshing melodies. This makes TWS the perfect endorsers for Milkis. As the brand said in a statement, “We selected TWS as our representative model because their identity aligns with the product’s pursuit of a thrilling and smooth image.” 

[TWS DEBUT SHOW] TWS 이렇게 만나서 반가워 (ENG SUB)

Soon after announcing their Milkis endorsement, TWS dropped their first EP and celebrated the release with a media showcase, a global debut show, and a fan showcase.

In other news, TWS will be featured in the March and April issues of the Japanese fashion and lifestyle magazine, ViVi. The March issue was made available starting January 23, and the April issue will be on sale from February 22. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The brand put faith in the group before their official debut. Sources: Facebook/Milkis PH, X/@TWS_PLEDIS.

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