Author: Kpop News Writer

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Cignature To Continue With 6 Members as Belle will Debut in UNIS

Cignature during their promotional activities for their song 'Aurora.' Credit: Twitter/Cignature

K-pop girl group Cignature is set to continue with six members without Belle, as announced by its agency C9 Entertainment on Monday, January 22. 

According to the agency, Belle, one of the group’s members, will take a break from promoting with Cignature, to give way to her debut in another girl group, UNIS. 

To recall, Belle, whose real name is Jin Hyeonju, participated and earned a spot in the recently concluded survival show Universe Ticket. 

With Belle making it to the final lineup, C9 Entertainment posted a statement saying that Cignature will continue as a six-member girl group for the meantime. Meanwhile, Belle will be an active member of UNIS for the next two years and six months.

Moreover, the agency asked fans to continue supporting Belle in her future activities. “We assure you that we will spare no effort in providing the best support for Cignature and Belle to meet you through various activities in the future,” they wrote.

Aside from the notice regarding Belle’s participation, C9 Entertainment also revealed that Cignature is gearing up to return with new music soon. The “Nun Nu Nan Na” singers last made a comeback in August 2023, after releasing their fourth mini album Us in the Summer.

Furthermore, Belle has been absent from the promotional activities of Cignature since she started participating in Universe Ticket. 

More about Belle and UNIS

Although Belle already debuted as an idol, she still competed in Universe Ticket and immediately earned a spot in the new group, UNIS. For those unfamiliar, the survival show featured 82 contestants from over countries, with only eight members making the debut lineup. 

In the finale episode, the 22-year-old Belle was revealed to be the eighth and final member of UNIS. She will be joined by 7 other members: Filipina contestants Elisia and Gehlee, Japanese contestants Kotoko and Nana, and South Koreans Yunha, Seowon, and Yoona.

Moreover, this will be Belle’s third time debuting in a girl group. In 2017, she first entered the K-pop industry as a member of the now-disbanded girl group GOOD DAY. In 2020, she became a part of Cignature. And now, she is set to debut as a member of UNIS.

According to reports, UNIS is slated to make their official debut in 2024. Although there’s no official details yet, the project girl group is expected to be active for 2 years and 6 months.

Featured image: Cignature during their promotional activities for their song ‘Aurora.’ Credit: Twitter/Cignature

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

INFINITE’s Sungjong Opens up on Legal Dispute With SPK Entertainment

Sungjong in the concept photos for INFINITE's '13egin' album. Credit: Facebook/INFINITE

Sungjong of the K-pop boy group INFINITE announced his decision to terminate his contract with SPK Entertainment.

In his official statement released on January 16, the singer disclosed the reasons as to why he parted ways with the agency. According to the idol, SPK Entertainment failed to fulfill their duties in assisting his activities, particularly with finances.

Moreover, the singer revealed that he did not get the support initially promised to him when he signed an exclusive contract. “I did not receive proper support from SPK Entertainment for broadcast appearances, fan meetings, or album releases,” Sungjong said. “I also did not receive the promised deposit,” he added.

Despite the company’s lack of support, the idol clarified that he still did his best to maintain a good relationship with SPK Entertainment. But after his months-long effort to negotiate with the label, the agency continued to put his complaints off. With this, he plans to take legal action against the company.

Furthermore, Sungjong shared that he made the final decision to exterminate his contract with the agency in December 2023. The singer then ended his statement by apologizing to fans for worrying them, and thanking them for their unwavering support.

Fans’ show their support for Sungjong

On social media, fans, especially INFINITE’s fanbase, Inspirits, have shown their love for Sungjong as he faces the legal conflict.

Several fans applauded the singer for his courageous act. “Probably not an easy decision. But I’m proud of Sungjong for fighting for what he deserves,” one wrote.

Other Inspirits have also expressed their concern for the idol as they claim this isn’t the first time Sungjong has been mistreated by a label. In 2022, Sungjong parted ways with INFINITE’s home agency, Woollim Entertainment, after a long 13 years. Since leaving Woollim, Sungjong had instances briefly showing hints of experiencing mismanagement.

With this, a lot of fans not only wished Sungjong a bright and successful career ahead, but also hoped that the singer will find a “good” company soon. Moreover, they reassured the idol that he will always have their backs.

In other news, INFINITE had their first group comeback in five years last July 2023 with the EP 13EGIN. Notably, the release came in time for the group’s 13th debut anniversary. Moreover, it was also the group’s first release since INFINITE successfully transferred the trademark rights of their group’s name under the INFINITE Company.

Featured image: Sungjong in the concept photos for INFINITE’s ’13egin’ album. Credit: Facebook/INFINITE

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Song Joong Ki to Star in New Drama ‘My Youth’

Renowned actor Song Joong Ki is making a much-awaited return to the small screen with the new drama My Youth. This project marks his first TV series since the 2022 JTBC drama Reborn Rich, which achieved a remarkable 26.9 percent viewership rating nationwide.

Specific details about My Youth, including its plot and cast, remain under wraps. The drama’s title might also change during the production process, as per local reports. This project holds special meaning for Song Joong Ki, as it will be his first project since he became a father last year. The My Youth script was penned by Park Si Hyun, known for another JTBC drama, Run On (2021). Song Joong Ki’s agency, HighZium Studio, is actively involved in the pre-production process. 

Last year, Song Joong Ki received significant attention for his role in the film Hopeless, which premiered in the Un Certain Regard section at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival, held from May 16 to May 27. The film was later released theatrically in South Korea on October 11, five months after its festival debut. Notably, Song Joong Ki agreed to appear in Hopeless without receiving any payment.

@piiw91

THE KING IS BACK !! – is confirmed to be released on March 1. #songjoongki송중기 #joongki #mynameislohkiwan #film #2024 #netflix

♬ الصوت الأصلي – ★

Song Joong Ki wants to broaden his horizons

In an interview while promoting Hopeless, he shared his experiences with overseas auditions. “I personally try not to do what I’ve done before. I have this strange obsession. If I don’t enjoy it myself, it shows. I’m not trying to act humble; it’s just that I really can’t fake it, and my performance suffers. After completing the Hopeless release schedule, I plan to go abroad and audition for projects. I’ve always been rejected, so I hope to succeed this time. My desire to act in different cultural contexts and diverse stories is growing.”

As for his aspirations, the actor said, “I want to broaden my horizons. I’ve climbed up the mountain with gratitude, and I want to become an even bigger mountain. That’s why I’m taking on various challenges. I’ll try to be an actor who makes people look forward to my work.”

Song Joong Ki was nominated for Best Supporting Actor at last year’s Blue Dragon Film Awards. His other upcoming projects are the Netflix film My Name is Loh Kiwan and Bogota, whose release date is still under discussion. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans eagerly await more news on Song Joong Ki’s new drama. Source: X/@joongkivisual.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NCT’s Jaemin Graces the Cover of Esquire Korea

The February 2024 issue of Esquire Korea will feature Jaemin of the K-pop group NCT DREAM. Widely recognized as the visual of the group, Jaemin is known for his impeccable fashion sense. He has a long history of gracing the covers of fashion magazines, and his upcoming appearance on the cover of Esquire Korea is the latest one. This issue, available starting February 2, 2024, has an exclusive interview and photoshoot with the artist.

Some photos from this issue, which show Jaemin in three different outfits, have already gone viral. His fans, known as NCTzens, were mesmerized by the way he looked. They called him “the most handsome man” and lauded his ability to effortlessly pull off any outfit.

@thisisyungmea

Our top looks from the @Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 Show!! Which one’s your fave? 🔥 #tiktokfashion #tiktoksalon #thisisyung #fyp #ss24 #mensfashionweek #whattowear

♬ original sound – THIS IS YUNG

For the shoot, Jaemin donned looks from the Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. Designed by Silvia Venturini Fendi, the collection draws inspiration from the people behind the label. This includes business professionals, designers, and factory workers, reflecting Fendi’s rich heritage in leather craftsmanship and its innovative approach to fashion.

The pieces he wore featured a mix of cotton and leather with apron-like designs and patch pockets. Accessories from the collection, including an updated version of Fendi’s Baguette bag, completed his ensembles. This Esquire Korea feature didn’t just highlight the unique elements of the Fendi Men’s Spring/Summer 2024 collection. It also demonstrated how Jaemin’s style perfectly complements the label’s approach to fashion.

펜디와 함께 한 재민의 여유로운 하루ㅣ 재민, NCT, 펜디, ESQUIRE KOREA

Jaemin shared his secret

Aside from the interview and photoshoot, Jaemin filmed two videos for Esquire Korea—a fashion film and an interview. During the interview, he talked about his winter routine, what he usually buys in the US, and more. Fans have recently noticed his more muscular physique, a development that was particularly highlighted when he posted a “shirtless selfie” on the artist-to-fan communication app, DearU Bubble. Jaemin revealed that his secret to maintaining this physique is to stock up on protein shakes and powders whenever he’s in the US. 

“In America, there are many varieties of protein powders and they are tasty,” he said.

재민 윈터 타이어 추천한 이유? | 재민, 엔시티 드림, JAEMIN, NCT DREAM, 펜디, FENDI

Jaemin also shared his secret to spotting fancams when he’s onstage. He explained that he memorizes the positions of the main cameras during rehearsals. When not in the direct view of these cameras, he takes the opportunity to find fancams in the audience. This strategic approach allows him to switch between gazing into the main camera during his parts and the fancams when he isn’t in focus. This ability to engage with fans even while performing is proof of why some call him the “king of fan service.”

Meanwhile, NCT DREAM is gearing up for an exciting 2024, with a new album and a world tour on the horizon. Stay tuned for updates on their upcoming projects! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jaemin cut a dashing figure in the Fendi pieces. Source: X/@ITSFOR813.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jimin and Jungkook Complete Basic Military Training

BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook have successfully completed their basic military training. They enlisted together under the buddy system in December last year. The completion ceremony, marking the end of their training, took place at the 5th Division’s Recruit Training Center on January 17.

X/@winnttaebear

Before the ceremony, Jimin wrote a heartfelt letter that was subsequently posted on Weverse. “A little over a month has passed. There are times when it feels like a long time, and there are times when it seems to go by quickly because Jungkook is next to me. It hasn’t been a long time but I already miss you a lot,” he began, addressing the fans.

“I say hello to the members on the pay phone, and Jungkook is also working hard in the military. He’s doing so well that the kids say, ‘As expected of Jungkook–hyung.’ He sticks with me and gives me a lot of support and strength,” Jimin added. “I’ll be going to my assigned military base soon, and I’ll adjust and try to do my best. ARMYs, please be careful not to catch a cold, don’t get sick, eat well, and think only good thoughts. Anyway, I’ll write to you when I get to the base. I love you!”

X/@JJK_Times

Jungkook also updated fans after the completion ceremony simply by writing one word (“Unity!”) on Weverse. He dominated social media trends after this brief message, with fans expressing their joy and relief at seeing him complete basic training safely. Finally, Jimin’s father posted some photos from the completion ceremony on the Instagram page of his café. The photos came with a message for ARMY, in which Jimin expressed gratitude for their love and support.

What will Jimin and Jungkook do next?

During the ceremony, Jimin received a commendation from his division commander, a prestigious award given to the unit’s top trainee. This commendation includes benefits like an early promotion and five-day, four-night vacation. This achievement reflects his exceptional performance across various aspects of military training, including discipline, leadership skills, physical fitness, and tactical knowledge.

Both Jimin and Jungkook were initially assigned to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. However, after a more detailed second classification was conducted, Jimin and Jungkook were identified as suitable for a more specialized function and were reassigned to an artillery battalion. An artillery battalion uses large-caliber guns, howitzers, and mortars to launch powerful, long-range attacks against enemy forces and fortifications.

@jiminahhlover0

I’m so proud of my favorite duo love you both🥰🥰🥰

♬ Military – Florews

Jimin and Jungkook may end up operating the K55 or K9 self-propelled artillery pieces. The K55, a mobile howitzer with a 155mm cannon, offers rapid deployment and robust fire support. The more advanced K9 Thunder has greater range, firing rate, and mobility, among other enhancements. It was once used to fire warning rounds near the Northern Limit Line in response to North Korean provocations.

As they continue their service, away from the stage but ever-present in the hearts of the ARMY, Jimin and Jungkook are showing that they’re dedicated soldiers as well as talented musicians. Fans, though concerned for their safety, are proud of their achievements and await their musical comeback in 2025. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Their families took these photos the day they graduated. Sources: X/@army_bts_do8es, X/@BTS7army1316, X/@sottjm.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Filipinos Elisia, Gehlee, and Hyeonju Join ‘Universe Ticket’ Girl Group

Filipinos continue to shine in the K-pop industry. Elisia Parmisano, Gehlee Dangca, and Jin Hyeonju, all of Filipino descent, are set to debut in the upcoming girl group UNIS. This exciting development comes from the survival show Universe Ticket. It featured a fierce competition among 82 female trainees, each aspiring to become K-pop idols. The top eight finalists earned spots in this new group, which will be managed by F&F Entertainment.

기특한 엘리시아를 모아봤습니다💖 엘리시아야 데뷔 축하한다!!!!!!!!

Filipino celebrities congratulated Elisia

The Universe Ticket judging panel included Girls Generation’s Hyoyeon, Rian of the dance crew La Chica, singer-actress Kim Sejeong, and singer-songwriters Adora and Younha. Their expertise and insights were instrumental in determining the final lineup of UNIS. After the show’s finale, photos of the chosen eight were posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Elisia’s journey on Universe Ticket was exceptional. She became the first contestant to reach the “P” level with 553,493.4 fan votes and a total of 781,987.1 points. This guaranteed her a spot in UNIS. Several well-known Filipino celebrities, including Marian Rivera and Regine Velasquez, congratulated her on social media.

Regine shared a touching Instagram post celebrating Elisia’s success. Along with a photo of herself and a younger Elisia, she wrote: “This little girl is all grown up now and making a name for herself in the K-pop world. Congratulations, Elisia, we are very proud of you.” Regine also tagged Elisia‘s Instagram account in the post. Similarly, Marian gave a shoutout to the trainee on her Instagram Stories, saying, “Ipagpatuloy mo ‘yang mga pangarap na ‘yan at alam kong marami ka pang magagawa at mararating (Keep pursuing those dreams, for I know you can accomplish much more and go much further).”

@elisia.universeticket

Marian Rivera and Regine Velasquez congratulate our new K-pop Idol Elisia! #elisiauniverseticket #universeticket #fypシ #fyppppppppppppppppppppppp #foryoupage #universeticket_sbs

♬ Come with me? (Universe) – UNIVERSE TICKET

In good company

The show’s finale also saw the success of two other Filipinos: Gehlee Dangca and Filipino-Korean Jin Hyeonju. Hyeonju, who represented Korea on the show, had previously debuted as Belle in the girl group cignature. Born on November 3, 2001, she brings a unique skill set to UNIS, including her disciplined lifestyle. She’s a fan of Disney and the color pink, and her inspirations are Girls Generation’s Seohyun and her parents.

Born on August 19, 2007, Gehlee is a talented performer who also participated in beauty pageants in the Philippines. Her hobbies include drawing, reading, and playing video games. She owns a husky named Meiji and is fluent in English, Filipino, and Korean. Her MBTI type is INFP.

Universe Ticket Episode 10 *Last Episode* full episode [ENG SUB]

The UNIS lineup is completed by Korean members Bang Yunha, Oh Yoona, and Lim Seowon, as well as Kotoko and Nana from Japan.

The addition of Elisia, Gehlee, and Hyeonju to UNIS highlights the increasing presence of Filipinos in the K-pop scene. They’re in good company with Chanty of Lapillus, solo artist Kriesha Chu, and the all-Filipino boy group HORI7ON. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These girls made Filipinos everywhere proud. Source: X/@_universeticket.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

CARATs Dissatisfied with Live Nation PH’s Handling of ‘FOLLOW’ Tour

SEVENTEEN’s recent concert in the Philippines, a part of their FOLLOW tour, promised excitement but ended up delivering a series of organizational mishaps and safety issues, primarily due to Live Nation PH’s management. CARATs had eagerly anticipated the event, but their excitement quickly turned to frustration and concern.

@kyesees

Sobrang kawawa ang carats 😭😡 #svt #followtobulacan #seventeeninbulacan #hallyutalkph

♬ original sound – KyeSees🌙💫🕊️ – KyeSees🌙💫🕊️

CARATs’ troubles

The troubles began early on the day of the concert. Live Nation PH sent out last-minute reminders about queuing policies. Some fans argued that these reminders should have been sent earlier to prevent miscommunication, particularly due to potential language barriers. Live Nation PH issued the reminders in English, prompting some fans to remind the organizer that not all international fans are fluent in English. They noted that it would take time for translators to translate these reminders. There was also confusion regarding the implementation of the no re-entry policy, including when and where it would apply, as entering the venue involved multiple steps.

When fans lined up for entry and strapping, they ended up waiting in unmoving lines for hours. This put many in danger of being late to the soundcheck or missing it altogether. That would’ve been a shame, as the soundcheck is a key part of the concert experience and fans pay extra to watch it. The soundcheck started on time, but due to the queuing issues, plenty of fans didn’t make it inside the venue until after it had begun. Furthermore, in the area where fans were supposed to line up, a sign attached to the ceiling came loose at one end. If it had fallen, someone would’ve been injured.

Accessibility issues and discrimination also surfaced. In a particularly troubling incident, a CARAT reported that her sister was denied access through the PWD (persons with disabilities) entrance. The staff reportedly dismissed her sister’s need for special access because “she looked okay,” a remark that blatantly disregards the challenges faced by individuals with invisible disabilities.

@big.chimchim

2 Carats po ang sumama ang pakiramdam after ng performance ng Fire. Sana po okay lang kayo 🙏🏼 #seventeeninbulacan #followtourinbulacan @seventeen17_official

♬ original sound – hoshiiii – hoshiiii

SEVENTEEN intervened

The venue’s layout only added to the fans’ grievances. Fans in specific seated sections found their view obstructed by the large control booth. Despite paying full price for their tickets, they had a limited view of the stage compared to those in other sections. The pit areas also posed a problem due to their limited space, leading to overcrowding. Furthermore, it appeared that Live Nation PH didn’t have sufficient staff monitoring these areas to ensure fans’ safety.

Environmental conditions contributed to the discomfort. The temperature hovered in the mid to high 80s Fahrenheit (around 30 to 31 Celsius). High humidity also exacerbated the heat. This was intensified by the body heat from the densely packed crowd in the pit areas. To make matters worse, fans weren’t allowed to buy water outside and bring it into the venue. Inside, water was scarce, especially for those in the pit areas, raising concerns about dehydration.

SEVENTEEN’s members themselves took notice of the fans’ plight and intervened. During the soundcheck, Seungkwan requested that staff distribute water to fans who had been waiting in the sun for hours. Although he wasn’t feeling well himself—a fact that fans learned later when he had to leave the stage midway through the show—he prioritized CARATs’ welfare. Meanwhile, Hoshi took measures to cool down the fans by splashing water on them.

@horanghae.kwonsoonyoung

hindi pa day 2 pero look at this 😭 #seventeeninbulacan #followtobulacan #seventeen #fyp

♬ original sound – rannunn 🦖💚 – rannunn 🦖💚

The main event

Later, during the main event, Hoshi was shocked to learn that fans didn’t have easy access to water. The situation took a serious turn when a fan fainted during the concert. The members immediately sprang into action, with Joshua calling for help and the group distributing water bottles from the stage. They also urged CARATs to spread out to ease the crowded conditions, demonstrating their ongoing concern for the audience’s wellbeing. 

Finally, a row of seats sustained significant damage, yet there was no acknowledgment or response from Live Nation PH. Notably, all these incidents occurred on the first day of the two-day event.

While the chance to see SEVENTEEN live was a dream come true for many, the experience was severely marred by Live Nation PH’s shortcomings in ensuring safety and managing the event. These organizational failures underscore the need for improved planning in future events. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Because of its lapses, CARATS are calling Live Nation PH the “worst concert organizer.” Sources: X/@livenationph, X/@shieventeen17.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: IU Drops Teaser for Upcoming Single ‘Love Wins All’

IU releases teaser for her single 'Love Wins All.' Credit: Twitter/IU

Gather up, Uaenas as IU‘s new track will be out soon! On Friday, January 19, the singer-actress announced that she will be releasing her pre-single track “Love Wins All.

Notably, V or Kim Tae Hyung of the popular boy group BTS will be making an appearance on the track’s music video. In the first released poster for the song, the two are seen sitting across a dining table with IU taking a photo of V. Moreover, the poster’s concept also appeared to be vintage.

Aside from the teaser, the agency also released the still cuts, track sampler, and the MV leaflet of the song. In these promotional materials, dramatic snippets of IU and V were shown.

As per the teaser, the two singers will be playing the roles of survivors in a post-apocalyptic world in the song’s music video. 

Shortly after the first teaser dropped, fans of both IU and V expressed their excitement for the release. Aside from seeing the team up of two huge stars, many are also intrigued by the theme of the song.

‘Love Wins All’ faces backlash prior to its release

Although highly-anticipated, “Love Wins All” has already made headlines even before making its official release. However, some of these were for negative remarks.

Initially called “Love Wins,” several K-pop fans expressed their conflicting opinions about the title. For those who don’t know, the slogan is widely used by the LGBTQ community as a way to celebrate same-sex couples. Several online users have pointed out that it is inappropriate for the singer-actress to use the slogan associated with the said community.

After receiving backlash, EDAM Entertainment announced changes for the upcoming track. Instead of its original title, IU’s upcoming song will now be called “Love Wins All.”  The agency explained that changes were made to show respect and support everyone who loves in various ways.

“We accept the opinions of those who express concerns that precious messages might be blurred due to the title,” EDAM Entertainment said. “We deeply hope that the original message of the song is delivered without leaving any scars on anyone, as every love wins all in the world with no hatred,” they added.

“Love Wins All” will be officially out on music platforms on January 24. After this, IU will kick off her H.E.R. world concert tour in Seoul starting in March. The singer, whose real name is Lee Ji Eun, is known for songs “eight,” “blueming,” and “Good Day,” among others. 

https://twitter.com/_IUofficial/status/1747272553947922847

Featured image: IU releases teaser for her single ‘Love Wins All.’ Credit: Twitter/IU

 

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Ex-BEAST’s Yong Junhyung Confirms Relationship With HyunA

HyunA and Junhyung updates fans with new photos. Credit: HyunA and Junhyung's Instagram accounts

On January 18, soloist HyunA and ex-BEAST member Yong Junhyung caused a stir online after posting photos of themselves holding hands on their personal Instagram accounts.

At the time, the two didn’t provide additional information about their relationship. However, HyunA’s caption using a lovely emoticon, and her comment saying “please look at us kindly” raised speculations among fans that the two stars have started a romantic relationship.

 

In response to the circulating issue, HyunA and Junhyung’s respective agencies — AT AREA and BLACK MADE simply stated that it is difficult for both companies to confirm anything as it is the artists’ personal lives.

But after a few days, Junhyung has personally confirmed their relationship in a written message to fans. Through the fan community platform fromm, the singer asked that their fans support their relationship.

“We’re doing well, bringing positive energy to each other,” he wrote, according to a translation by Koreaboo. 

Relationship timeline

Even before the confirmation, K-pop fans have expressed their respective thoughts regarding the possibility of the two singers dating. A few have speculated that the photo may only be for an upcoming collaboration. Meanwhile, the majority of fans, especially of HyunA, have posted negative opinions about it.

For those who don’t know, HyunA and Junhyung were once labelmates in CUBE Entertainment. To recall, the “Bubble Pop!” singer previously debuted under the agency as a member of Wonder Girls in 2007, and then re-debuted in 4minute in 2009. 

On the other hand, Junhyung first set foot into K-Pop as a member of the boy group BEAST in 2009. They later left CUBE and reorganized themselves as HIGHLIGHT in 2017. Remarkably, the two stars first teamed up in HyunA’s solo debut track “Change”, which was released in 2010.

Prior to Junhyung, HyunA was in a relationship with former PENTAGON member and soloist DAWN from 2016 to 2022. Notably, HyunA and DAWN were also labelmates in CUBE Entertainment and even did sub-unit activities under Triple H. In 2018, the two left the agency after going public with their relationship. 

Moreover, HyunA and DAWN got engaged in February 2022, but announced their split in November the same year. 

Fans’ mixed opinions on HyunA and Junhyung being together

With the rumors that the two idols are dating, fans have shared their disappointment on social media. To recall, Junhyung was publicly scrutinized in the past for his involvement in the infamous Burning Sun scandal in South Korea.

The said scandal uncovered several crimes happening in the entertainment industry, particularly cases of prostitution, drug trafficking, and corruption. Numerous celebrities including BIGBANG’s Seungri were involved in the controversy.

During that time, Junhyung was also criticized after admitting to being part of a Burning Sun group chat. Although claiming that he never participated in filming inappropriate videos, the singer received backlash for being an enabler. Following the issue, Junhyung left HIGHLIGHT in 2019.

Considering Junhyung’s background, netizens were surprised to see HyunA’s association with him. Especially since the “I’m Not Cool” singer has been actively speaking for women’s empowerment and rights.

With this, fans have shared their disapproval of the two idols’ relationship on social media. 

Featured image: HyunA and Junhyung updates fans with new photos. Credit: HyunA and Junhyung’s Instagram accounts

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Park Seo Joon to Take Legal Actions Against Defamation Accusers

Park Seo Joon shares behind-the-scenes photos from his filming. Credit: Instagram/Park Seo Joon

On January 16, Awesome ENT released an official statement saying that the agency has taken a legal action against malicious commenters defaming actor Park Seo Joon.

According to the label, they have obtained evidence identifying the individuals who have made harmful posts against the actor from the year 2020. Moreover, the agency explained that these acts include, but are not limited to, sexual harassment, false information, and family insults regarding the actor.

In their statement, Awesome ENT also revealed that some of the accused have already been transferred to the prosecution. Meanwhile, others are currently under police investigation.

 

In line with the investigation, the agency asked for the fans’ understanding as they can’t disclose specific details about the case in order to maintain confidentiality. Furthermore, they reassured fans of the 35-year-old actor that they will hold the respondents to strong legal responsibility. On top of that, Awesome ENT emphasized that they will enforce the “zero tolerance principle” for these accusers. 

“We hope that people will stop posting malicious slander against actors while hiding behind anonymity,” Awesome ENT wrote. “We will continue to work hard to protect the personality and rights of our actors,” the agency continued.

More about Park Seo Joon

Known as one of the most respected male actors today, Park Seo Joon first debuted in a small role for a music video in 2011. At 20 years old, he already completed his mandatory service prior to starting his acting career.

In 2015, Seo Joon made a breakthrough in the dramas Kill Me, Heal Me, and She Was Pretty. After which, he became one of the most prominent main leads both in dramas and films.

Some of his renowned dramas include Hwarang in 2016, What’s Wrong With Secretary Kim in 2018, and Itaewon Class in 2020, among others. As for the big screens, Seo Joon has starred in hit films such as Midnight Runners, Dream, and Concrete Utopia.

In 2023, he made his Hollywood debut with an appearance in The Marvels. 

For 2024, the actor is set to return for a second season of the Netflix thriller series Gyeongseong Creature, where he will star alongside actress Han So Hee.

Featured image: Park Seo Joon shares behind-the-scenes photos from his filming. Credit: Instagram/Park Seo Joon

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