Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Singer Kevin Oh Enlists in South Korean Military

Singer Kevin Oh recently enlisted in the South Korean military. His agency T Cask ENT confirmed the news soon after it became public. Incidentally, Kevin is the voice behind “Crazy,” the theme song of D.P., a military-themed K-drama. It ran for two seasons on Netflix.

“He enlisted to further his music career in Korea and to ensure a stable family life with his wife,” the agency stated in a post on its official Instagram account. “He looks forward to returning after his military service to continue making music and connecting with his fans.”

Kevin rose to fame as the winner of Superstar K’s seventh season in 2015 and later with his EP Stardust in 2017. He decided to enlist despite holding dual American and Korean citizenship. This decision isn’t just about fulfilling a legal obligation. It’s a strategic move that allows him to maintain his American citizenship as per South Korean law, which permits dual nationals to retain their citizenship if they enlist before turning 35.

[LIVE] 케빈오 – Crazy (드라마 D.P. OST) [PLAY!]ㅣ네이버 NOW.

Kevin is deeply committed to life in South Korea

Serving in the military is considered  a rite of passage in South Korea. For a public figure like Kevin, taking this step can improve his image in the South Korean entertainment industry. It reflects his commitment to his life in the country, where he’s built a successful career and married top actress Gong Hyo Jin. Their wedding in New York back in October 2022 was just the beginning of their life together.

Gong Hyo Jin recently opened up about their marriage on You Quiz on the Block. She revealed the nickname she has for Kevin in her phone—“Angel,” a name even her in-laws find corny. She also recounted how they met, starting with attending one of Kevin‘s concerts and leading to a serendipitous dinner in the US. This dinner marked the start of their relationship.

As Kevin dons his military uniform, he stands as more than just a singer or a celebrity. He embodies the culture and values of his chosen home. It’s clear that he’s deeply committed to life in South Korea. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Kevin didn’t have to enlist, but he did. Source: Kpop Wiki.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu Recalls Losing His Passport Before ‘Nana Tour’ Filming

SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu recently shared an amusing yet chaotic story that occurred just before the filming of the reality show NANA TOUR with SEVENTEEN. As the group’s fans are aware, Mingyu had a panic-inducing moment when he lost his passport, sparking a frantic search at the airport.

@__metawxn

How did he even lost it😭 #mingyu #seventeen #svt #fyp #foryoupage

♬ Super – SEVENTEEN

Mingyu disclosed an intriguing twist

The drama unfolded as SEVENTEEN arrived at the airport to depart for Italy, where they were set to film the show. It was while they were heading towards immigration that Mingyu realized his passport was missing. He immediately sat down and made urgent phone calls to various contacts for assistance. At the same time, Na Young-seok, the show’s Producing Director (PD), quickly mobilized the fans present to join in the search for the missing passport. After an intense ten minutes, the passport was found with a staff member, enabling Mingyu to successfully board the plane.

This incident was later brought up at a press conference for the show. It was held at the Eliena Hotel in Gangnam, Seoul. It was here that Mingyu disclosed an intriguing twist: his bandmate DK was the mastermind behind the incident, having decided to play a prank on him.

He shared, “I lost my passport from the first day. I was looking for my passport until just before the flight. Even the fans at the airport helped me, but I couldn’t find it. It turned out that DK had taken my passport and boarded the plane. And he took my plane ticket too. But in the end, I was able to board the plane after a lot of twists and turns. Fans also shared videos with the video PDs, so you can feel the desperation and urgency at the time.”

@gyulgyuuu

The truth of mingyu losing his passport 🤣🤣 #mingyu #kimmingyu #seventeen #seventeen_official #fypシ #foryou #foryoupage

♬ original sound – Gyulgyuuu 𖧷 – Gyulgyuuu 𖧷

A promising start

DK was seated next to Mingyu at the press conference, where Mingyu affectionately gestured towards DK, playfully exposing him as the prankster by touching his shoulder. DK responded with a mischievous smile, eliciting laughter from everyone present. This playful interaction underscored the group’s fun-loving and lighthearted nature.

SEVENTEEN is renowned in the K-pop world not only for their music but also for their unique comedic flair. They frequently engage in hilarious challenges and pranks, both in interviews and on their variety show, Going SEVENTEEN. Their carefree and unfiltered approach to life has endeared them to both fans and non-fans alike.

NANA TOUR with SEVENTEEN, which debuted on January 5, started strong with a 2.1% viewership rating for its first episode. Considering it’s on a cable channel, this rating is quite respectable. The show aims to hit a 3% rating, similar to Earth Arcade Season 1, another show by the same producer, which began at 2.2% and reached 3.1%. Generally, for cable variety shows, achieving ratings between 2-4% is seen as successful, indicating a promising start for NANA TOUR with SEVENTEEN. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Mingyu often gets pranked by the other SEVENTEEN members, and this time was no exception. Sources: X/@gyuiecs, X/@gyumedia, and X/@sph_svt.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin of EXO to Manage Solo, Unit Activities Under I&B100

Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin of the K-pop boy group EXO announced on Monday, January 8, their decision to manage their solo activities under I&B100, Baekhyun’s independent label.

Also known as the sub-unit CBX, the trio are set to introduce the members’ individual activities under I&B100. Moreover, they will also be more active with unit activities now that they’re in a separate label.  

In the group’s press release, I&B100 also revealed their plans to revive the members’ musical personalities. As the trio are already entering their 13th year in the industry, the agency shared that the EXO members have been pondering more about their future career plans. 

With this, the move will serve as a starting point for Baekhyun, Chen and Xiumin to experiment and participate more in the artistic process of doing music, including writing and producing songs. According to the agency, it’s the members’ “longtime dreams” to do so. 

“The start of this label is based on long-standing deliberation and aspirations of the members,” IB&100 added.

To note, I&B100 is an agency Baekhyun established himself in June 2023. With Chen and Xiumin also signing under the label, fans are anticipating to see more of CBX activities this year.

After the announcement, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin have now opened their individual social media accounts. Additionally, the agency also posted their first series of solo photos. 

EXO to continue future activities with SM Entertainment

Although the three members are now set to handle their own activities, Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin reassured fans that they will continue their group activities with EXO. 

Through a social media post, SM Entertainment commented about the direction of the K-pop boy group.  “Going forward, all eight members of EXO will continue activities together as EXO,” they said. 

Aside from showcasing new music and performances, the label also teased that the group has plans to stage a fan meeting in April. 

According to SM Entertainment, the exclusive contracts of Chen, Baekhyun and Xiumin are still valid with the agreement to allow them to independently conduct personal activities. To recall, CBX previously filed a lawsuit against the label in June 2023. But both parties reached a settlement after a few weeks.

Aside from CBX, member D.O. (Do Kyungsoo) has also parted ways with the agency in  October 2023. Since then, he has pursued activities under Company SooSoo. However, SM Entertainment shared that the That’s Okaysinger has agreed to participate in EXO’s activities and is currently in ongoing discussions about their future schedules.

EXO plans to communicate with fans through good music and stages. So we ask for your interest and support in the members’ activities,” SM Entertainment

EXO, which debuted in 2012, released their seventh full-length album Exist in July 2023. 

Featured image: I&B100 releases new profile photos of EXO’s Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin. Credit: Instagram/I&B100

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Stray Kids’ Felix Becomes Youngest Member to Join UNICEF’s Honors Club

On Thursday, January 4, UNICEF’s Korean Committee revealed that Felix of the K-pop boy group Stray Kids became the youngest member to join its esteemed Honors Club. 

Through the organization’s social media account, it was announced that Felix made a generous donation of 100 Million Won (around $76,000) to UNICEF. Said donation aims to assist children in Laos who are struggling with stunted physical development. 

Aside from being the youngest member, the 23-year-old rapper is also the first person to join the Honors Club in 2024. 

 

In a press release, Choi Mi Jin, the secretary general of UNICEF’s Korean committee, relayed his gratitude to the artist. “We thank Felix’s donation and for giving hope and courage to the children in Laos,” he said. Moreover, they also described the idol as a person who has “always taken the lead in donation activities for underprivileged neighbors.” 

In response, Felix said that he wanted to participate in this donation because he wanted to share the love he has been receiving. “We hope that Laos children, who suffer from various difficulties due to polluted water, hygienic conditions, and insufficient nutrition, will grow up healthy in a safer environment in the new year,” the singer said.

For those unfamiliar, UNICEF Korea’s Honors Club features a select group of donors who have contributed at least 100 million won to the organization as a support to their causes. In 2019, BTS’ Jin and Girls’ Day Hyeri became members of the UNICEF Honors Club. 

STAYs can’t help but be proud of Felix

Upon seeing the announcement, several fans took to social media to share their thoughts about Felix’s warm gestures.

“You truly do have a heart of gold. We are so proud of you,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile another said: “I am so proud Felix is heavily involved in helping children. Other fans also called the idol a good role model and an “angel.”

Moreover, fans couldn’t help but be awe by the idol as this isn’t his first philanthropic gesture. In February 2023, the Stray Kids member had donated 50 Million Won to the nongovernmental organization World Vision for the victims of earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

In March 2023, Felix was also appointed as a member of the Save the Childrens Honors Club. Since 2020, the singer has continuously shown support for the organization’s campaign. 

Featured image: UNICEF Korea reveals Stray Kids’ Felix recent donation to the organization. He is the youngest member to join the esteemed Honors Club. Credit: Twitter/UNICEF Korea

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Girls’ Day Hyeri to Make Noir Film Debut in ‘Tropical Night’

Get ready to witness Hyeri in a new light! On Wednesday, January 3, several South Korean media outlets reported that idol-actress Hyeri is making her noir film debut with Tropical Night. 

Gaining prominence for her lead role in the 2015 Korean drama Reply 1998, Hyeri has already earned praise for her admirable acting skills. But this time, she is yet to prove her versatility as she takes on a genre she hasn’t explored before. 

In the upcoming noir film The Tropical Night, the Girls’ Day member will portray the role of Ari. According to reports, her character is a former K-Pop idol who turned into a pole dancer at a local street club in Thailand. 

 

Moreover, Bloodhounds actor Woo Do Hwan and Arthdal Chronicles star Jang Dong Gun will star alongside the actress. In the film, Woo Do Hwan will play as a part-time emcee named Taekang. When the two characters’ encounter each other at an event, they quickly fall in love and create a romantic storyline. Meanwhile, Jang Dong Gun’s character is yet to be unveiled.

Aside from the powerful cast, Tropical Night will also be helmed by an esteemed crew. It will be spearheaded by director Kim Pan Soo, who is also the writer of the story. In addition, it will be produced by Hive Media Corp. Among its known works are Deliver Us from Evil, Inside Men, and The Last Princess

Additionally, reports also said that the entire filming of Tropical Night is set to take place in different locations across Thailand. By the end of January, the production stage for the film should take place. 

Busy year ahead for Hyeri 

2024 just started and it appears that Hyeri has several projects under her belt. 

Aside from Tropical Night, the idol-actress will also star in the youth-themed film Victory. The project marked her comeback to the big screen after three years. In Victory, Hyeri will play the role of a high school girl who formed a cheerleading team thanks to her passion for dancing. According to her social media posts, Victory wrapped up filming in 2023 and is scheduled to be released in 2024.

Moreover, the Girls’ Day member will be hosting her new talk show titled Hyeri’s Club. In the teaser for its pilot episode, it was revealed that the first guest would be Jisoo of the famed girl group BLACKPINK. Said show premiered on Hyeri’s Youtube channel on January 5.

In November 2023, it was also announced that she’ll be starring in Netflix’s new variety show Agents of Mystery. Other cast members include aespa’s Karina, Lee Yong Jin, Lee Eun Ji, Kim Do Hoon, and John Park. 

Featured image: Girls’ Day Hyeri updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Hyeri

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Shares ‘Rise to Stardom’ Story in Comic Book ‘Fame: Bts’

Heads up, ARMYs! On Friday, January 5, multimedia company TidalWave Comics announced its upcoming comic book about the sensational K-pop juggernaut BTS

Titled FAME: BTS the comic will follow the journey of the septet as they turn from performers to soldiers.

In particular, the 22-page series will feature the supergroup’s transition to enlistment. To note, all seven members—Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook—are currently fulfilling their mandatory military service. 

Jin, the eldest in the group, became the first member to join the army in December 2022. Meanwhile, BTS leader RM and the“maknae” (youngest) line—Jimin, V, and Jungkook—have only enlisted in December 2023.

According to reports, BTS’ story will be a part of the publisher’s FAME series. Said series will introduce the stories of celebrities including singers, actors, and sports stars. Other installments of FAME featured the global stars Taylor Swift, Beyonce, Demi Lovato, One Direction, among others.

FAME: BTS will be released on both print and digital platforms on January 10. Moreover, it will also be available to read via iTunes, Google Play, GlobalComix, and etc.

In July 2023, the supergroup also released their book, Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS. 

BTS’ promise to meet ARMYs in 2025

Although currently inactive, the group behind the hit tracks “On”, “DynamiteandBlood, Sweat & Tearsmade a promise to their global fanbase, ARMYs. Prior to enlisting, the septet already reassured their fans that they will be back together in 2025.

Well, this anticipated reunion is closely coming into reality as members Jin and J-Hope are scheduled to be discharged from the military in 2024. In fact, ARMYs would no longer have to wait much longer as Jin and J-Hope are expected to return by June and October of this year, respectively.

As the new year began, Jin also shared a warm message for ARMYs through a short YouTube video. There, he wished the fans a happy new year and reminded them to remain patient as he will soon complete his mandatory service. “Wait just a little bit more, and you’ll be able to see me,” the singer said.

On the other hand, members Suga, RM, Jimin, V and Jungkook will all be discharged by 2025. 

According to the group’s agency, BigHit Music, BTS will resume its full-fledged activities as a full group, once all the members complete their service. 

In September 2023, the label announced that all seven members renewed their contracts with BigHit Music. Notably, this was the second time for the full group to renew their contracts. 

See you in 2025, BTS!

Featured image: BTS in FESTA photos for 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Girls’ Generation YoonA Renews Contract With SM Entertainment

The pink blood is truly with YoonA of K-pop girl group Girls’ Generation, also known as SNSD, as she signs with SM Entertainment for the third time!

On Wednesday, January 4, SM Entertainment announced that the idol-actress has renewed her exclusive contract with the agency. With this, they’ll be extending their 17-year partnership. 

Moreover, reports claimed that the two parties smoothly ended up with an agreement that is based on the trust and confidence they have for each other. 

“We plan to provide full support to Lim Yoona, who is actively working in various fields across dramas, movies, and on stage, so that she can shine even more and continue to be an artist who makes a global influence,” SM Entertainment said in a statement. To conclude their post, the agency also asked the fans to continue supporting the artist. 

YoonA throughout the years

For those unaware, YoonA debuted as a member of the girl group Girls’ Generation in 2007. Widely known as the group’s “center,” the singer received love from both local and international fans for her unrivaled visuals.

In the same year, YoonA ventured into the world of acting by starring in a small role. In 2008, she bagged her first lead role in the KBS drama You are My Destiny. Since then, the idol-actress has proven that she can excel both on stage and on screen. 

Among her remarkable dramas include The K2, Prime Minister & I, and Big Mouth. Recently, her latest drama, King the Land, secured her numerous awards including the 2023 APAN Global Star Award, Idol Champ Best Actress Award. Moreover, she also received the Idol Champ Best Couple Award, with her King The Land co-star Lee Junho.

Aside from being an idol and an actress, YoonA has also distinguished herself as a reliable host. Throughout her career, the Girls’ Generation member has hosted several shows including the MBC Music Festival, which she began hosting in 2015.

In 2024, she’ll be embarking on her YOOnite fan meeting, which will kick off in Seoul, South Korea. After that, the idol-actress will visit seven cities across Asia to meet her international fans. To note, this will be her first solo fan meeting after six years.

 

Furthermore, she’s also expected to make her comeback on the big screen soon. Earlier reports claimed that she’ll be starring in the 2024 film 2 O’Clock Date. Although additional details about it are yet to be revealed.

Featured image: SNSD’s YoonA at the APAN Star Awards 2023. Credit: Facebook/Girls’ Generation

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TREASURE Launches ‘Double Donation’ Campaign for Youth

K-pop boy group TREASURE and label YG Entertainment are welcoming the new year with a noble cause! 

On Wednesday, January 3, YG Entertainment announced that the boy group TREASURE will be participating in Naver’s Happy Bean Double Donation Program.

To note, the said program is a donation-participating service where companies donate the same amount of funds the campaign has raised.

According to YG Entertainment, they aim to raise a total of 60 Million Won for the campaign. The amount which will be collected until the end of the month will be used to support children and adolescents’ needs, including education support, medical care, art programs, and other categories.

“We hope the children and teenagers can grow up in an environment where they can dream and experience as much as they want,” TREASURE said in a press release. “We hope that our assistance can enable them to take a step forward,” the “DARARI” singers added.

In the group’s X account, the idols also encouraged their fans, Treasure Makers or Teumes, to participate in the program. “We ask for your interest in the double fundraising box that we personally selected,” they said.

On social media, the group’s fanbase shared that they are proud of TREASURE for initiating the warm gesture. Moreover, several fans called them “best boys.” One fan even said “I really stan the right group.”

More about TREASURE

Originally a 12-member group, TREASURE made their debut in February 2020 with the track “Boy.” For those unfamiliar, the band was formed through the reality-survival program Treasure Box in 2019.

Currently, TREASURE is composed of 10 members: Hyunsuk, Jihoon, Yoshi, Junkyu, Jaehyuk, Asahi, Haruto, Doyoung, Jeongwoo, and Junghwan. In November 2022, YG Entertainment announced that members Bang Ye-Dam and Mashiho officially parted ways with the group.

With their four years in the K-pop scene, TREASURE has gained recognition for their upbeat music. In their powerful discography, they are most known for bop tracks “Bona Bona,” “Hello,” “Jikjin,” among others.

Moreover, the group had its latest comeback in July 2023 with the release of their second full-length album REBOOT. In the same month, TREASURE’s first official sub-unit, T5, was revealed. Composed of Jihoon, Junkyu, Jaehyuk, Doyoung and Junghwan, T5 exhibited their dancing skills with the release of their first single “Move.”

In 2024, the 10-piece act is set to light up the Japan stage as they are bound to perform in multiple cities for their REBOOT concert tour.

Featured image: TREASURE is participating in Naver’s donation campaign. Credit: Twitter/TREASURE

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO’s Baekhyun Rumored to Establish Own Agency

From being an outstanding performer, Baekhyun of the K-pop boy group EXO is now rumored to take on a new venture in his career. This time, as an agency owner and a CEO. 

On Wednesday, January 3, several Korean media outlets reported that Baekhyun has launched his own label, I&B100. According to Tenasia, the idol has already completed the formal registration of the company. Moreover, the artist has also allegedly formed its team of internal directors in the label.

To recall, reports about I&B100 first made headlines last year as the EXO vocalist allegedly established the agency in June 2023.

Furthermore, the same report by Tenasia also claimed that his fellow EXO members, Chen and Xiumin, will also be joining the said label. 

However, neither Baekhyun nor SM Entertainment have yet to address the reports about the label. 

If proven to be true, I&B100 will be Baekhyun’s second owned company. In August 2023, the singer revealed that he set up One Signature with his friend Kasper. Notably, the EXO member said that the agency aims to produce good choreographers and dancers.

As there’s no confirmation yet about Baekhyun’s agency I&B100, EXO fans are worried as to what it means for the group. Especially considering how there’s several huge changes in EXO for 2023 alone. 

SM Entertainment’s earlier statement abouts Baekhyun and EXO

To note, Baekyun, Chen, and Xiumin filed a lawsuit against SM Entertainment in June. The EXO-CBX sub-unit cited unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as their motivation. However, both parties have reached a settlement after an almost three-week legal battle. 

In August, Baekhyun revealed his plans to establish an agency in a live broadcast on Instagram. With that, he also clarified that he will remain with EXO. “I will be operating a company while staying with SM Entertainment. And continue to be active with EXO members,” he said.

Moreover, SM Entertainment also released a statement saying that their exclusive contract for the three EXO members are still in place. “We cannot reveal the specific conditions. But in accordance with the agreement with the company, we have made it possible for the three members to engage in their individual activities,” they added.

In October 2023, SM Entertainment confirmed that EXO member D.O will have his contract expired by November. Shortly after, it was announced that D.O. will be pursuing his acting and individual activities through Company SooSoo. Despite being in a new agency, SM Entertainment emphasized that D.O. will still continue his EXO activities under them. 

Given the situation with D.O, it appeared that it might also be the case for Baekhyun should the rumors of his new agency be true. Which means that the group’s fandom, EXO-Ls, can be reassured that EXO will continue to perform together despite being under separate agencies.

Featured image:BBaekhyun poses for EXO’s latest album ‘Exist.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

TWS Releases Profile Film Despite Ongoing Plagiarism Controversy

TWS is moving forward with their debut plants despite the controversies they’re facing. Ahead of their official debut on January 22 with Sparkling Blue, TWS dropped a profile film. TWS is the first new boy group to debut under PLEDIS Entertainment since SEVENTEEN nine years ago.

The profile film follows the prologue film they released on January 2, which revealed the names and faces of the six members: Dohoon, Hanjin, Jihoon, Kyungmin, Shinyu, and Youngjae. The prologue film highlighted their training, determination to perform well, and close-knit brotherhood. It showcased them performing for HYBE founder Bang Si-hyuk, SEVENTEEN producer BUMZU, and a few members of SEVENTEEN. The song the sextet performed in the prologue film, “OH MYMY : 7S,” is a dynamic slice of rollicking funk. 

TWS (투어스) Profile Film

However, the group’s visuals have sparked mixed reactions online. A viral post on South Korean forums titled “PLEDIS’ New Boy Group Members Revealed” included photos of the members. Some netizens expressed disappointment that they’re not as handsome as other fifth-generation rookies. Others defended them, suggesting that the photos didn’t do them justice and that their styles would evolve, much like SEVENTEEN‘s did.

TWS is in a challenging position

But that’s far from the only problem plaguing TWS. TWMStrap, a company specializing in handmade watch straps, accused TWS of plagiarizing their logo. “The logo of TWS seems too similar to our logo, which we created and trademarked,” TWMStrap said on Instagram. “The brand is planning to file a complaint for infringement with the assistance of a lawyer. Copying cannot be tolerated. [The logo] is the face of the brand.”

TWMStrap reached out directly to the band on social media, seeking a dialogue about the issue. PLEDIS Entertainment responded with a statement, promising to conduct an internal investigation regarding TWS’s logo. Aside from the logo, TWS is also receiving backlash for its slogan. Netizens believe it’s too similar to ENHYPEN’s slogan. ENHYPEN fans have trended different hashtags on social media, expressing their concerns over the similarity.

TWS (투어스) Prologue ‘Oh Mymy : 7s’

These controversies have put TWS in a challenging position even before they officially enter the K-pop industry. As they navigate these issues, the guidance and support of PLEDIS Entertainment and HYBE will be vital in determining the boy group’s future. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The boys are in hot water already, and they haven’t even debuted yet. Source: X/@pledis_twspics.

Exit mobile version