Author: Kpop News Writer

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BLACKPINK’s Lisa Rumored to Make Acting Debut in ‘The Walking Dead’

Lisa updates fans with new photos from holiday trip. Credit: Instagram/BLACKPINK's Lisa

BLINKs, are you ready for actress Lisa? On December 26, Vogue Thailand released an article claiming that the K-Pop singer Lisa of girl group BLACKPINK is reportedly making her acting debut in the Hollywood series The Walking Dead.

According to several media outlets, the singer has been flying back and forth to Paris, France for the past few months. Notably, her travels coincided with the filming location and schedule of the popular zombie apocalypse series. 

Fans’ speculations were even intensified as the show’s official Instagram page followed Lisa’s personal account. Some fans took this as a possible hint of the idol’s involvement in the series. 

To add, the lead actor of The Walking Dead’s spin-off, Norman Reedus who plays the role of Daryl Dixon, has also followed the singer. Other fans were also quick to spot the two famed celebrities hanging out a few times.

Fans can’t wait to witness the acting debut of Lisa

Although there are no official confirmations yet, the singer’s fans, especially BLINKs, have already expressed their excitement to see Lisa’s acting debut. 

Once confirmed, Lisa will now be the third BLACKPINK member to enter the world of acting. Previously, Jisoo made her TV debut in the melodrama Snowdrop. Meanwhile, Jennie launched her acting career in the HBO Original Series The Idol.

On social media, fans shared that they would love to see the multi-talented idol conquer another field in the big screens. “Please let it be real,” one fan wished. Another said: “Lisa in the Walking Dead? Will definitely be tuning in if it’s true.”

Others even stated that they will binge-watch the entire series once the idol is confirmed to make an appearance on the show.

In other news, YG Entertainment just revealed that none of the BLACKPINK members renewed their contracts for individual activities. Which means that Lisa, Jennie, Rose and Jisoo will now have the capability to explore solo endeavors, while also keeping BLACKPINK active and intact.

With this, Lisa is now a free agent who has the autonomy to pursue her desired projects outside of BLACKPINK’s group activities. Upon hearing this announcement, fans have become more hopeful for the singer’s possible acting debut in the series.

Featured image: Lisa updates fans with new photos from holiday trip. Credit: Instagram/BLACKPINK’s Lisa

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

IU Requests Compensation for Plagiarism Accusation

EDAM Entertainment shares holiday photos of IU. Credit: Twitter/IU

Following winning her legal battle, singer-actress IU is seeking compensation for the plagiarism accusations made against her. 

On December 21, South Korean media outlets reported the development. According to the artist’s agency, EDAM Entertainment, the anonymous individual who reported the singer for copyright violations in May 2023 has recently been identified with the help of local police. 

To recall, the singer has been accused of plagiarizing other people’s works in six of her tracks. Some of these songs include her hits “Good Day” and “The Red Shoes.”

In September, the singer’s case was dismissed as legal authorities decided that the accusations did not directly involve the supposed original composers of the allegedly copied songs. A month after, EDAM immediately proceeded to file a defamation lawsuit against the accuser.

In total, IU is seeking 30 Million Won or approximately $23,000 in compensation for the damages caused by the plagiarism accusations.

Since the lawsuit is still ongoing, the agency refrained from disclosing more information. “We are currently checking the information in accordance with the law, and cannot disclose the details yet”, EDAM said. However, the label reassured that the lawsuit will proceed until the accuser faces the legal consequences of their actions.

What to expect from IU in 2024

Amidst this development, the singer will be welcoming the new year with a positive start. 

During the last week of December, she has revealed that she will be releasing new music soon. On Christmas Day, the singer shared the behind-the-scenes video clip of her commercial shoot through her Youtube channel. There, IU also teased the fans that she is preparing to drop a new album set to be dropped in the first half of 2024.

Moreover, the singer-actress will also be seen in an official music video starring Kim TaeHyung or V of the world-renowned band BTS. Aside from V, the singer also showed her friendship with another BTS member, Suga as she appeared on his show.

In the latest episode of Suchwita, IU candidly opened up about music and career. There, she also revealed details about the upcoming mini album. Notably, she also briefly mentioned her plans for overseas concerts.

While there are no official confirmations yet about the album or the tour, fans are already excited for what she has prepared for 2024.

Featured image: EDAM Entertainment shares holiday photos of IU. Credit: Twitter/IU

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

G-Dragon Launches Anti-drug Foundation ‘JUSPEACE’

G-DRAGON during BIGBANG's LAST DANCE concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

K-pop singer G-Dragon is making a powerful statement after his drug accusations. After being cleared from drug allegations, the singer, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, launched his new anti-drug foundation JUSPEACE. 

According to the idol’s agency, Galaxy Corporation, JUSPEACE was named by G-Dragon himself. Additionally, said foundation was created through the combination of the words “justice” and “peace.”

As mentioned by the new agency’s officer, Cho Sung-hae, the foundation is established on the strong will of G-Dragon to create a society free of prejudice. “The first project of the foundation will focus on drug eradication and provide medical treatment for addicted youth,” they said.

Moreover, the BIGBANG member also shared a heartfelt letter where he announced the news on his official Instagram account. “Proper action must be taken, especially for young people exposed to dangers and people who do not realize these dangers”, G-Dragon wrote.

Showing his pure intentions, the 35-year old singer made his first donation to JUSPEACE under the name of BIGBANG’s fanbase, VIPs. With a total amount of 300 Million Won, G-Dragon used the catchphrase “Guardians of Daisy.” Such statement was used by VIPs to show their support during his investigation.

In addition, G-Dragon also plans to select experts in the fields of medical health, public administration, and welfare to participate in the foundation’s advisory committee.

To note, the idol was first accused of using illegal drugs in October. Throughout the hearing of the case, the artist has been amadant in emphasizing his innocence. In late November, he was officially cleared of suspicions after his drug tests came out negative. 

G-Dragon starts anew after leaving YG Entertainment

Not only is he celebrating being cleared from the drug-related charges, G-Dragon is also marking a fresh start in his career. In the midst of his controversy, YG Entertainment confirmed that the artist is no longer under their agency. 

After a lengthy 17 years, he officially parted ways with YG Entertainment. Notably, this made him the last BIGBANG member to depart from the agency. To note, G-Dragon was considered as one of the most esteemed YG Entertainment artists since debuting in 2006.

In a statement released by the agency on December 20, YG Entertainment shared that the artist decided to leave the label. “We sincerely wish G-Dragon blessings for his new chapter. We ask for a lot of support and encouragement from his fans,” the agency said.

Shortly after, it was announced that the artist has signed with a new company, Galaxy Corporation. 

Featured image: G-DRAGON during BIGBANG’s LAST DANCE concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jessica Jung Opens up About Departure From Girls’ Generation

Jessica Jung greets fans for the holidays with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jessica Jung

After almost a decade, former Girls’ Generation member Jessica Jung looked back on her departure from the girl group in 2014.

On December 20, Jessica made an appearance on the Singaporean podcast series, The Daily Ketchup. There, the singer opened up about leaving the group Girls’ Generation, also known as SNSD.

To note, Jessica ended her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment in 2015. At the time, the agency stated that the singer wished to focus on her solo career and business at that time.

When one of the hosts asked her thoughts about the matter, Jessica responded that she tries to put the past behind her and try to focus on the brighter side.

“Of course, that time was one of the darkest times of my life,” she said. “But I had my family and friends to support me. And my fans were always there.” 

Furthermore, the artist explained that she considers that phase of her life as a “good transitioning period” and a “good time for her to grow up”.

Moreover, Jessica gave a comparison of what it’s like being a part of a group versus working alone. The singer candidly answered that the majority wins when you work in a group, while she gets to “choose everything” as a solo artist now.

During her appearance, Jessica also clarified that these include both small details and big decisions. “You need to learn how to cope with that and be okay with being in that type of system, which I was fine with,” she said. Then, the singer proceeded to share that she enjoys her solo career so far.

Look forward to soloist Jessica Jung

After roughly six years, Jessica finally made her much-awaited comeback in November With the release of her fourth mini-album Beep Beep.

To note, the album has a total of six songs, including the title track of the same name. In particular, one of the songs is a collaboration track with fellow ex-SM Entertainment artist Amber Liu.

Upon the release of the duo’s “Get It? Got It? Good” music video, fans expressed their nostalgia seeing both singers perform in one frame again.

Aside from new music, Jessica is also in the midst of her Diamonds Dream concert tour. 

Featured image: Jessica Jung greets fans for the holidays with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jessica Jung

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SEVENTEEN Drops Trot Single ‘God of Light Music’

SEVENTEEN releases 'God of Light Music' in official streaming platforms. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

The theater kids of K-pop are now into the trot genre! On Tuesday, December 26, boy group SEVENTEEN celebrated Christmas by dropping their first trot single “God of Light Music.”

For those unfamiliar, “God of Light Music” is meant to be a parody of the “God of Music” — the title track of the group’s album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. 

Since it was created through the group’s variety series Going Seventeen (GoSe) as a fake promotion, fans were surprised to see the song released on official streaming platforms.

In the two-part special GoSe episode, Dino channeled his ahjussi character Pi Cheolin. As this character, he pretended to set up his agency, BOMG, with the help of producer Woozi.

Another proof that they are indeed “self-producing idols,” the group shared their process in creating “God of Light Music.” Notably, the parody track featured lyrics by the members themselves, particularly by Mingyu and Jun.

 

Undoubtedly, the group’s fandom, Carats, found the said track hilarious. Therefore, many expressed their plea to have the official release of “God of Light Music”.

“There were many requests to release the music of ‘God of Light Music,’ which was originally made as a promotional content for SEVENTEEN’s comeback,” the group’s agency, PLEDIS Entertainment said in a press release.

Alongside the release of “God of Light Music” were also several releases. One of which is the instrumental version, as well as the trot remix of “God of Music.”

Notably, trot is well-known as a popular genre of Korean music, due to its distinct repetitive rhythms. With this, “God of Light Music” serves as the latest addition to SEVENTEEN’s long and versatile discography.

More to come for SEVENTEEN

Aside from the newly released single, SEVENTEEN has another gift prepared for fans. On January 5, the group’s variety show with renowned producer Na Young Suk titled Nana Tour will finally be released.

To recall, Nana Tour, with the full title of Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN” is set to showcase the members’ wits alongside Na PD’s entertainment expertise.

In the show, the members explore scenic spots in Europe while playing various games and activities along the way. Said program will have a total of six episodes, with about a 60-minute duration per episode.

In addition, the “Super” hitmakers are also set to meet their international fans for the Asia stop of their Follow world Tour. However, SEVENTEEN will continue performing with 11 members, as S.Coups and Jeonghan are currently on hiatus due to health concerns.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases ‘God of Light Music’ in official streaming platforms. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Yena Drops Teasers for ‘Good Morning’

Yena poses for her EP 'Good Morning.' Credit: Twitter/Yena

Yena is welcoming 2024 with new music! On December 22, Yuehua Entertainment officially announced that the singer will be releasing a new album on January 15.

On her social media platforms, Yena first teased the fans with a mysterious “Coming Soon” poster with only the details of the release date.

https://twitter.com/YENA_OFFICIAL/status/1737850414148767885

During the last week of December, the idol started rolling out teasers for her third mini-album titled Good Morning. In some of the photos, the singer is seen rocking long pink hair while posing in different settings. 

https://twitter.com/YENA_OFFICIAL/status/1740387131217023217

According to a Naver article, a representative from Yuehua Entertainment shared what to look forward to in the upcoming release. “Choi Yena will be active as a new ‘morning angel’ through this album. She will deliver a message of hope and comfort to music fans,” it read. 

Yena to return after controversy

Since participating in MNET’s famed survival program Produce 48, she made her debut as part of the project girl group IZ*ONE, after winning a spot in the show. After disbanding in April 2020, Yena made her solo debut in 2022. As a soloist, she has been known for her popular tracks “Smiley” and “Smartphone,” among many others.

However, things did not go out well for her most recent comeback. In June, the soloist received unfavorable remarks after releasing her second single album Hate XX with the title track “Hate Rodrigo.” Although it was highly-anticipated as the song featured Yuqi of (G)I-DLE, the track was put as the center of a controversy.

Having mixed reactions about the song’s meaning, netizens pointed out that the song directly referenced US pop star Olivia Rodrigo. Moreover, the idol was criticized for her “copycat” portrayal of the “Vampire” singer in the official music video.

In response, Yuehua Entertainment released an apology for causing confusion and concern. “We have discovered that the following music video might contain grounds that may have infringed trademark and portrait rights,” they said. They then put the original video on private, and reuploaded an edited version of the MV.

In addition, Yena explained that the song was intended to pay homage to Rorigo. Moreover, it was meant to express the “cute” jealousy she feels towards the admired singer. 

After the controversy, Yena took a break from her promotions in Korea. Recently, the singer focused on her Japanese debut with the release of the Japanese version of “Smiley” featuring Chanmina.

Now seven months later, she’ll be returning with Good Morning. 

Featured image: Yena poses for her EP ‘Good Morning.’ Credit: Twitter/Yena

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RIIZE’s Anton Set For Two TV Appearances With His Father Yoon Sang

RIIZE’s Anton and his father, the highly respected composer, musician, and record producer Yoon Sang, are preparing for their first joint performance on TV. This special event is part of the 2023 MBC Music Festival, which will be broadcast at 8:30 PM on December 31.

In addition to the 2023 MBC Music Festival, Anton and Yoon Sang will also appear on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block. When they sat down with the show’s hosts, Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho, they opened up about various topics. They shared plenty of stories about their father-son relationship, as well as some interesting tidbits about Anton’s life as a member of RIIZE. The episode will air in January 2024.

라이즈 앤톤[RIIZE ANTON], 미친 재능의 수영 선수가 아이돌이 된 이유는 아버지?!

Yoon Sang on Anton

Yoon Sang once talked about how he felt when Anton decided to join the music industry. On the October 2 episode of the SBS talk show Same Bed, Different Dreams 2 – You Are My Destiny, he revealed that he used to be against the idea of his son becoming a musician. He had other things in mind for Anton.

“Anton started swimming at the age of five. When he was about 12 years old, he won a gold medal at the Junior Swimming Championships in New Jersey. He was a talented junior swimmer in the States. It just seemed obvious to me that he would keep swimming and go to university there,” he began.

That’s exactly what Anton would’ve done if it hadn’t been for COVID-19. “But along the way, all swimming pools were closed due to the pandemic,” Yoon Sang continued. “A couple of months after the pools had been shut down, Anton said, ‘I want to quit swimming and begin doing music.’ I couldn’t stop him. So when he said he wanted to go to Korea for it, I told him, ‘OK, give it a go, then.’”

[MMA2023] RIIZE FULL Performance | #GetAGuitar #TalkSaxy #MMA2023

A strong father-son relationship

So it was that Anton joined SM Entertainment as a trainee. He later debuted in RIIZE, the agency’s first new boy group in seven years. The group has had remarkable success since they came on the scene in September. Earlier this month, they won the New Artist of the Year award at the 2023 Melon Music Awards. This win is notable as it marked the first time in 15 years that an SM Entertainment act has clinched this prestigious award. SHINee had won the award in 2008, following Super Junior‘s win in 2006.

Fans of RIIZE are eagerly anticipating these TV appearances by Anton and Yoon Sang. These are not merely interviews or performances, but they offer a unique glimpse into how a strong father-son relationship can be a cornerstone for success in music. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Anton and his father have a loving, supportive relationship. Source: Daum, X/@K_arkheion.

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Blackpink Jennie Launches Own Label ‘Odd Atelier’ for Solo Activities

Jennie establishes label OA. Credit: Instagram/Jennie

Jennie of girl group BLACKPINK is welcoming the new year with her own label!

On December 24, the K-Pop superstar surprised her fans with the announcement that she is launching her own label Odd Atelier or OA for her solo activities.

“Hi, This is Jennie. This year was filled with many accomplishments, and I’m so thankful for all the love I’ve received,” the singer said. “I’m also excited about what’s to come, as I start my own journey in 2024 with a company that I have established called OA,” she added.

 

Alongside photos of herself in black-and-white, Jennie asked for the fans’ support in her journey. “Please show lots of love for my new start with OA and of course, BLACKPINK. Thank you,” the singer wrote as she ended her post.

Meanwhile, the company’s mission was also briefly explained through OA’s official Instagram account. 

“OA is a space that aims to create new things that attract attention in a different way from what is usual or expected,” the caption read. mMoreover, it was also mentioned that the label was founded by Jennie in November 2023.

Interestingly, Odd Atelier’s Instagram account has now gained over 1.3 Million followers since the announcement.

 

 

From releasing solo music to making her acting debut in The Idol, Jennie proved to her supporters that she can excel alone in multiple fields, making fans more excited for her solo works under OA.

Further details about Jennie’s plans for the new venture will be unveiled in the future.

Jennie still in BLACKPINK’s area

Although the “Solo” singer will handle her solo activities with OA, Jennie will still participate in BLACKPINK’s group activities under YG Entertainment. As YG announced in early December, all four members have signed an exclusive contract with the agency, assuring that the quartet will continue performing together.

Since their debut in 2016, BLACKPINK established themselves as one of the biggest and most successful girl groups in the world. In 2023 alone, the “Pink Venom” hitmakers managed to take home multiple awards from Billboard and Guinness World Records, among many others.

In addition, the four-piece act also released their first ever virtual concert BLACKPINK: A VR Encore last December 26 to celebrate the holidays.

However, BLACKPINK is currently inactive as Jisoo, Rose, and Lisa are still negotiating individual contracts with YG Entertainment. 

Featured image: Jennie establishes label OA. Credit: Instagram/Jennie

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Actor Lee Sun Kyun Found Dead at 48

In a shocking development that has left the entertainment world in mourning, South Korean actor Lee Sun Kyun was found dead at the age of 48. His body was discovered in his car at Waryong Park in the Jongno district of Seoul. His wife, actress Jeon Hye Jin, called the police at 10:12 AM to report that she had found what appeared to be a suicide note from the actor. At 10:30 AM, the police found him slumped over in his car, unresponsive.

Lee Sun Kyun’s death is a significant loss for the film industry, both in South Korea and internationally. He was a versatile and talented actor, best known for his role in Parasite. This film won the Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. It also made history by winning four Academy Awards, including Best Picture. Critics praised his portrayal of the wealthy patriarch in Parasite, saying it showcased his depth and skill as an actor.

However, his career encompassed much more than this single role. He had been a prominent figure in Korean TV and cinema for over two decades. His breakthrough performance in the TV series Coffee Prince (2007) brought him into the limelight, and he continued to impress with roles in films such as A Hard Day (2014) and Paju (2009), as well as the drama series My Mister (2018). His ability to bring a unique depth to his characters made him a beloved figure in the industry.

‘Parasite’ actor Lee Sun-kyun found dead: report | ABS-CBN News

Lee Sun Kyun was under investigation

The news of Lee Sun Kyun’s passing has sent shockwaves throughout the entertainment world, with tributes pouring in from fans and colleagues alike. His agency, HODU&U Entertainment, has requested privacy and urged caution against misinformation during this difficult time. They also announced that only his family and friends will attend his funeral.

This tragic incident occurs amidst an ongoing investigation into allegations of drug abuse involving the actor. He claimed that he had mistakenly taken illegal substances, thinking they were sleeping pills, after a host at a high-end bar deceived him. This complex situation was further complicated by allegations of blackmail and a request for a polygraph test to verify the truth of these claims.

Lee Sun Kyun’s legacy in the world of cinema will live on through his memorable performances. His tragic passing is not only a loss to the Korean entertainment industry but to international cinema as well. People will cherish and remember his remarkable contributions to the industry for years to come. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The actor is survived by his wife and two sons. Source: X/@globalmyeon, X/@theseoulite, X/@Tsumize.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Couple Thunder and Mimi to Debut as a Duo Unit

Celebrity couple Thunder and Mimi share photos from their prenup shoot. Credit: Instagram/Thunder

Who says you have to choose between love and career? Real-life couple Thunder and Mimi are proving that they can manage both! The former MBLAQ member and Gugudan member confirmed that they’re gearing up for their debut as the duo unit Cattriever.

On Wednesday, December 20, the married couple opened up the official Instagram account of Cattriever. There, the couple announced that they are set to drop their debut album on May 26, 2024.

 

According to some of their posts, Thunder and Mimi already began filming for their music video. 

Although additional details about the duo are yet to be announced, fans are excited to see both idols work on their music again.

More about Thunder and Mimi

For those unaware, Thunder, whose real name is Park Sung-Hyun, is a former member of the second-generation idol boy group MBLAQ. He spent five years with the group from its debut in 2009 until his departure in 2014. 

On the other hand, Mimi is a member of the girl group gugudan which debuted in 2016 and disbanded in 2020. After her career as an idol, Mimi became an actress.

In July, the two surprised fans when they revealed their relationship. On top of that, they also shared the exciting news of their marriage, after dating for four years. 

On October 31, the former MBLAQ member shared a few wedding shoot photos on his personal Instagram account. “We had our wedding photoshoot yesterday! It was a happy day. Thanks to everyone who congratulated us,” the singer wrote.

 

Meanwhile, Thunder’s sister, Sandara Park, left a heartwarming message on the said post. “Seeing my younger brother, I realized what it looks like when a man falls in love”, she said. Additionally, the former 2NE1 member also sent well wishes for the couple. “Love Mimi lots in the future and I pray that you both build a happy family,” the singer added.

Amidst the excitement for their marriage preparations, the two confirmed through the program Lovers of Joseon 2 that their wedding will be held sometime in 2024. 

Featured image: Celebrity couple Thunder and Mimi share photos from their prenup shoot. Credit: Instagram/Thunder

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