Author: Kpop News Writer

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Hyolyn and Bora Open Up About SISTAR19 Reunion

Bora and Hyolyn pose for Arena Homme+ magazine. Credit: Twitter/SISTAR19

Ahead of their highly-anticipated comeback, Hyolyn and Bora of girl group SISTAR showed their timeless visuals as they posed together for the January 2024 issue of Arena Homme+ Magazine.

Through its official Instagram account, the magazine shared duo and individual photos of the idols. “SISTAR19 is back,” they captioned the post. 

Interestingly, the pictorial came weeks after the confirmation that Hyolyn and Bora are reuniting as SISTAR’s subunit, SISTAR19.

 

In November, several media outlets confirmed that the duo will officially return in January 2024. Although currently signed to different agencies, Hyolyn and Bora will work on their project together through Klap Entertainment.

“The two members are working hard on their vocals and choreography to upgrade the unit’s identity”, the agency said. Moreover, Klap Entertainment also mentioned that the group’s former agency, Starship Entertainment, pledged their full support for the new project.

When asked about their reunion as a pair, Bora shared how good it felt to reunite again.  “After we made the huge decision [to come back] as SISTAR19, I actually found myself feeling more at peace,” she was quoted in the magazine. 

On the other hand, Hyolyn expressed her excitement for their release. “I want to have our thoughts and feelings reflected in the image of SISTAR19. So that we can do a good job conveying our message to the people who have been waiting for us.”

SISTAR19 is back! 

To note, the pair’s last mini EP was Gone Not Around Any Longer which was released in January 2013. Prior to that, SISTAR19 debuted with its hit single “Ma Boy” in May 2011. Although both releases gained massive success, the duo went into a decade-long hiatus, which makes fans even more anticipative of this upcoming comeback.

Known for several summer-themed tracks including “Touch My Body,” “Shake It, and “Loving U,” SISTAR became one of the most-loved girl groups from their debut in 2010. However, the quartet disbanded in 2017 following the expiration of their contracts with Starship.

Since then, the members focused on their solo careers. In particular, Hyolyn released new music while Bora ventured into the world of acting. 

Returning with brand new music after a long absence, SISTAR19 is set to show off their charms for the January comeback.

Featured image: Bora and Hyolyn pose for Arena Homme+ magazine. Credit: Twitter/SISTAR19

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Why Some BTS and TXT Songs May Never Be Performed Live Again

In a turn of events that has left many fans disheartened, some of BTS and TXT’s beloved songs may never be performed live again. This situation stems from the controversy surrounding composer Bobby Jung, also known as Jung Dae Wook of the indie band Autumn Vacation, who has been embroiled in legal issues.

In May 2020, Bobby Jung was accused of illegally filming and sexually assaulting a 20-year-old aspiring singer he was dating. The case garnered significant media attention, especially after the victim tragically committed suicide. Although Jung pleaded “not guilty” and the initial case was dismissed, another victim filed a case in February, leading to Jung’s indictment under the Sexual Violence Crime Penalty Act. The Seoul Western District Court ultimately sentenced Jung to one year in prison for illegally filming a nude woman without her consent. He was given 40 hours of sexual violence education and jail time. He also received a five-year ban from working at facilities serving children, young people, or disabled people.

The court’s verdict stated, “Jung filmed the victim’s body illegally without consent, and the victim is experiencing significant mental shock and humiliation. While the victim’s side is requesting severe punishment for Jung’s action, Jung did not demonstrate an attitude of reflection. Taking into account that Jung did not distribute this footage to anyone, and that he has no similar offense, Jung is hereby sentenced to one year in prison.”

K-Pop Composer Bobby Jung Imprisoned For Sexual Misconduct

What songs has Bobby Jung worked on?

This sentencing, though nearly a year ago, has recently come to light among ARMYs. How and why? Well, it’s all because of the BTS – PERMISSION TO DANCE ON STAGE IN THE US DVD. Fans realized that many songs, including “Love Myself,” “I’m Fine,” “Filter,” “Dream Glow,” and “134340,” might be censored by HYBE. In fact, both “Love Maze” and “HOME” were deleted from the DVD, with the common denominator being Bobby Jung’s involvement in these songs.

Apart from his role in Autumn Vacation, Jung is a composer who has worked on notable projects. He contributed to the aforementioned BTS songs and helped write “20 cm” and “Roller Coaster” for TXT. The TXT songs may suffer a similar fate, which is unfortunate for fans.

While ARMYs were initially shocked and disappointed, most agree that Bobby Jung needs to be held accountable. However, it’s unfortunate that others who worked on these songs will suffer as well. The controversy has led to a complex situation where the songs are overshadowed by ethical and legal considerations. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is unfortunate, as the songs themselves are definite earworms. Source: NewsBytes, PEOPLE

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BLACKPINK Releases Trailer for ‘A VR Encore’ Virtual Concert

Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo pose together after their Coachella performance. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

BLINKs, make sure to get a virtual seat! On Wednesday, December 20, K-pop girl group BLACKPINK released a new official trailer for their first ever virtual concert A VR Encore. 

The upcoming 70-minute virtual concert will feature footage of the group from their finale concert of the Born Pink World Tour at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul. Interestingly, this will even be made more special with art technology, providing a new experience for the fans.

In a Billboard press release, the quartet shared their experience with the project. “Filming our upcoming VR concert in the heart of Seoul has added an extra layer of magic to this project,” the quartet said.

“This is where it all began for us. And being able to share this unique experience with our fans around the world feels incredibly special,” BLACKPINK added.

In partnership with Meta, A VR Encore will premiere on December 26, at the Meta Horizons World. 

2023: a year of milestones for BLACKPINK

The A VR Encore virtual concert isn’t the only present BLACKPINK gave to their fans. In fact, the entire 2023 has been especially massive for the “Shut Down” singers.

Holding a total of 66 concerts and approximately 1.8 Million audience worldwide, BLACKPINK set a new record as Born Pink became the highest-grossing K-pop concert in history. As per the data released by Billboard, the quartet took home around $148.3 Million in gross, excluding their Asia stops.

Aside from that, the “Pink Venom” singers also hold the most number of Guinness records for a female K-pop act. As of writing, BLACKPINK now has a total of eight records including the most viewed group on Youtube and the most streamed female group on Spotify.

Moreover, Lisa, Jennie, Jisoo and Rose also celebrated their seventh year anniversary in August. 

After month-long negotiations between the group and YG Entertainment, the label announced in early December that all four members had renewed their contracts.

With this, fans are reassured that the powerhouse girl group will continue to perform together in the future. However, the label said that contracts regarding the members’ individual activities are still in talks. 

Featured image: Jennie, Rosé, Lisa, and Jisoo pose together after their Coachella performance. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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GOT7’s Mark Asks Fans to Stop Sending Gifts to His House

Mark Tuan in the poser of his latest EP 'Fallin'.' Credit: Twitter/Mark Tuan

Mark Tuan of boy group GOT7 made a polite appeal to his fans.

On Wednesday, December 30, the singer took his thoughts to his personal X account. “I know it’s all out of love but I’d appreciate it if you guys stop sending letters and packages to my house. Please and thank you,” Mark wrote.

Although he didn’t detail the incident that prompted the request, it can be noted that he moved back to the United States since GOT7 left JYP Entertainment in January 2021. To recall, the Taiwanese-American singer grew up in Los Angeles and was part of GOT7′s foreigner line. 

After that, he signed with top Hollywood talent label Creative Artists Agency. Since then, he has also established his own YouTube channel, record label, and Chinese company.

As a soloist, he released the single “Carry Me Out” in March 2023. In October, he returned with his latest EP Fallin’

Currently, Mark is in the middle of his “no other side” concert tour. In 2022, he had several stops across North America. Starting January 6, 2024, the “Everyone Else Fades” singer will be performing in Kuala Lumpur, Manila, Bangkok, and Seoul. 

 

Fans raise concern for Mark 

Upon seeing the post, fans, especially Ahgases (GOT7’s fanbase), responded with echoes for his request. 

“If you love him, the first thing you must do is respect his privacy and safety,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile another stated: “A true fan knows you can’t cross the boundaries, stop invading Mark’s personal space!”

Others, meanwhile, felt apologetic for the bad fan behavior and applauded Mark for bravely speaking up. “I am sorry people are being this invasive, I hope you guys are safe and protected,” one wrote. 

Many fans also expressed their concern for the singer and asked him to take care of himself. Overall, we hope that this would be a reminder to fans to respect the privacy of the artists. 

Featured image: Mark Tuan in the poser of his latest EP ‘Fallin’.’ Credit: Twitter/Mark Tuan

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‘Apartment 404’ Featuring BLACKPINK’s Jennie, Yoo Jae Suk Drops Teasers

tvN releases the first teaser for new variety show 'Apartment 404.' Credit: YouTube/tvN

Attention, tvN’s newest variety show Apartment 404 is getting ready for its much-awaited release!

In the 15-second trailer posted on Wednesday, December 20, the show’s full cast lineup has been unveiled.

Notably, the variety program will feature Jennie of girl group BLACKPINK, and veteran host Yoo Jae Suk. Moreover, Moving actors Cha Tae Hyun and Lee Jung Ha, Alchemy of Souls actress Oh Na Ra and Yang Se Chan of Running Man.

With Jennie confirmed to be a part of the show, fans, especially BLINKs, are even more excited! Especially as this will be the idol’s first variety show appearance as a mainstay in five years. In 2018, she was part of the show Village Survival, the Eight. 

In Apartment 404, the cast will play as the six residents of an apartment who will trace the truth behind extraordinary events. What makes the storyline more exciting is that these events are based on the real-life experiences of people.

Moreover, the program will also be led by director Jung Chul Min, known for his work Sixth Sense. Set in different locations and periods each episode, the viewers’ investigative skills and memory will be put into test as they try to solve mysteries with the cast.

Get to see the chemistry between the cast of ‘Apartment 404’

With the announcement of the final cast lineup, fans are anticipating how the members will work their way together.

Known as an entertainment show veteran, Yoo Jae Suk is expected to show his leadership and wisdom in solving cases in the show. As seen in his previous shows such as Busted! and The Zone: Survival Mission, Jae Suk proved that he also has an edge in mystery variety shows.

Meanwhile, Jennie, who’ll be having her return on variety programs, will act as the mascot for Apartment 404. Her fans are already looking forward to her adorable appearance in the show. 

They will be joined by actors Cha Tae Hyun and Lee Jung Ha who both gained recognition for the hit 2023 drama Moving. In particular, Tae Hyun who has two-decades experience in the industry is also expected to show his wits in the table. On the other hand, Jung Ha will be showing his charm as the youngest member in the group. 

And the chemistry between the cast is even made powerful with actress Oh Na Ra’s bubbly personality. But the lineup is made complete by comedian Yang Se Chan, who’s known for his unique and fun tactics.

Apartment 404 is set to premiere in the first half of 2024.

Featured image: tvN releases the first teaser for new variety show ‘Apartment 404.’ Credit: YouTube/tvN

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BLACKPINK’s Lisa Highlighted as a Top Act in Guinness World Records 2023

Lisa receives an award during MTV VMAs 2022. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

Guinness World Records recently released its “Record-breaking best of 2023” list. And to no surprise both Lisa and her group BLACKPINK had their names mentioned in it.

According to GWR, 2023 was a huge year for K-pop. But what makes the year more monumental is three records were set by Lisa in January alone. 

“She became the first solo K-pop winner at the MTV Video Music Awards (VMAs) and the first solo K-pop winner at the MTV Europe Music Awards,” they wrote. Moreover, the Thai rapper was also praised for “earning the record for most followers on Instagram for a K-Pop artist.” 

With an astounding total of eight Guinness World Records under her name, Lisa has now solidified herself in the industry. As of writing, she remains to be the first and only K-Pop artist to achieve this feat.

Aside from three previously mentioned records, BLACKPINK’s youngest member also earned records as the fastest solo K-pop female artist to reach 1 Billion streams on Spotify. Moreover, she also holds the first K-Pop track and album by a solo artist to reach 1 Billion streams on Spotify for the track “Lalisa” and album of the same name.

Meanwhile, her last two Guinness Records are for the most views for a music video in 24 hours by a solo K-Pop artist.

In addition, Lisa’s group, BLACKPINK also earned recognition for GWR’s year-end ranking. There, the “Pink Venom” singers were mentioned to be the most streamed female group on Spotify.

Lisa and BLACKPINK’s unstoppable global influence

As testament to their global influence, both Lisa and BLACKPINK have achieved numerous awards for several endeavors. 

For one, Lisa has been honored as the first K-Pop Act to be inducted as a cultural icon in the “Asian Hall Of Fame” list of 2023.

As for BLACKPINK, the quartet continued to break records in multiple categories especially this year. Some of which are: the highest-grossing tour by an Asian act for their Born Pink World Tour, the first girl group in 18 years to win at the Billboard Music Awards, and the most searched girl group of all time in Google, among many others.

With all the members’ confirmed contract renewal with YG Entertainment, 2024 already looks promising for the powerhouse act. As per reports, BLACKPINK has already earned a spot on the Guinness World Records 2024! This achievement is for being the first K-Pop girl group to reach the #1 spot on US and UK album charts.

Featured image: Lisa receives an award during MTV VMAs 2022. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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Fantasy Boys’ Agency to Take Legal Action Against Malicious Posts Involving Kim Gyu Rae

Kim Gyu Rae poses for the group's latest EP 'Potential.' Credit: Twitter/FANTASY BOYS

PocketDol Studio has released an official statement denouncing the dating rumors involving FANTASY BOYS member Kim Gyu Rae. 

Recently, rumors about the 14-year old idol dating a 22-year old staff member in their company have circulated online. According to other reports, these rumors were posted alongside alleged private messages and videos involving the idol.

In response, PocketDol Studio released an official statement to react to the malicious posts. 

According to the agency, the idol is “truly apologetic and reflecting on himself for causing disappointment and confusion” to his team members and fans as “issues related to his private life” are being leaked without his permission on social media. 

However, PocketDol Studio then clarified that the disclosed chat logs were misleading. In their statement, the agency emphasized that the disseminator of the content used malicious methods such as editing the conversations to generate baseless facts which caused harm to the artist’s reputation.

Moreover, the label shared that they were able to identify the person behind these malicious actions. With all the evidence collected, PocketDol Studio said that they plan to submit a defamation lawsuit. 

“We are considering additional legal action against the specified person not only for defamation. but also for various illegal acts such as cybercrime and intimidation,” they added. 

Furthermore, the agency also asserted that they will take strong actions to protect their artists. Not only will they file lawsuits, but PocketDol Studios emphasized that these will be done without “any settlement or leniency.” 

As of writing, member Kim Gyu Rae has yet to react on the issue. 

More about FANTASY BOYS

For those who don’t know, Kim Gyurae is a member of the rookie boy group FANTASY BOYS. Said group was formed through MBC’s reality competition show of the same name, FANTASY BOYS. 

11 members compose the group, namely: Gyurae, Seongmin, Hyeontae, Hanbin, Qi, Minseo, Hikari, K-Soul, Wooseok, Hikaru and Kaedan.

In September, the boy group officially debuted with the mini EP NEW TOMORROW.

After marking their entrance in the K-pop scene, FANTASY BOYS immediately made a comeback in late November with their second mini EP Potential.

Featured image: Kim Gyu Rae poses for the group’s latest EP ‘Potential.’ Credit: Twitter/FANTASY BOYS

 

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Watch: JYPE’s New Boy Group NEXZ Drops ‘Miracle’ Performance Video

Meet the members of JYP Entertainment's newest Japanese boy group NEXZ. Credit: Twitter/NEXZ

Here comes the latest addition to the JYPE family! On Monday, December 18, JYP Entertainment’s newest Japanese boy group, NEXZ, dropped the performance video of their pre-release track “Miracle.” 

Just a day after the song’s release, the Japanese version has now garnered over 4 million views while its Korean counterpart has now over 820,000 views.

Composed of seven members, NEXZ was formed through the agency’s audition program Nizi Project Season 2. Interestingly, its first season gave birth to the girl group NiziU, which made its debut in 2020. Said program is a collaboration between JYPE and Japan’s largest record label Sony Music.

Prior to the release of “Miracle,” the agency’s founder Park Jin Young coined the group name which he explained to be the Next Z (Generation), who will lead the K-Pop scene in the future. According to the agency, it was also JYP himself who wrote the song after getting inspiration from the growth of participants and the dreams they had in common.

Meet the 7 NEXZ Members

Seven contestants were announced as winners in Nizi Project season’s final episode. Those who have been selected as the members of NEXZ are: Tomoya, Yu, Haru, Ken, Seita, Yuhi and Yuki. 

And here’s what we know so far about the boys:

https://twitter.com/NEXZ_official/status/1736409423311212926

First is Uemura Tomayo who will be the rookie group’s leader. Born in January 2006, his journey began as a JYP trainee at the age of 13. With a 2 year and 7 months trainee experience, he is now finally ready to turn his idol dreams into reality.

Next on the list is Tomiyasu Su who was born in April 2005. He is the eldest member in NEXZ.

The third one making up the team is Inoue Haru who began his journey as an aspiring idol by auditioning in Seoul, South Korea. Carrying his passion for dance, Haru placed 2nd in the finale of the audition program.

They are joined by Ken whose real name is So Gun. Although his specific position in the group remains undisclosed, fans are anticipative of his role as he impressively secured the fourth spot in the show.

Next is Kawashima Seita who also started his idol journey by auditioning in Seoul. In the show, Seita ranked seventh place and was revealed to be the final member of NEXZ.

Also part of the lineup is sixth placer Komori Yuhi who is also a former JYP trainee.

Lastly, we have the youngest member Nishiyama Yuki who was born in September 2007. The young contestant was able to secure the 3rd spot thanks to his splendid dancing skills.

With the pre-release track gaining massive support, fans are now expecting more for the group’s future activities.

Featured image: Meet the members of JYP Entertainment’s newest Japanese boy group NEXZ. Credit: Twitter/NEXZ

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Red Velvet’s Joy Shares Health Update After Receiving Comments About Her Weight

Joy posing for the group's album 'Chill Kill.' Credit: Facebook/RED VELVET

Several clips of K-pop girl group Red Velvet went viral recently for their latest performance at an event  in Indonesia. However, one of the group’s members, Joy, was called out for her appearance.

In the girl group’s performance at the said show, some netizens noticed that Joy had a sudden weight gain. 

On the paid service app Bubble, the singer gave a health update to Red Velvet’s fanbase also known as Luvies. 

“There are a lot of luvies who are worried and curious about year-end me. I’m kinda worried about saying this. But since I didn’t fully recover when I went on a hiatus this year, my health got worse because of recent activities,” the singer opened up.

To note, Joy went on a hiatus in April to focus on her declining health. But after only about two months of getting rest, the singer immediately resumed her activities in June. 

Taking the recent matter into consideration, the singer and her agency, SM Entertainment, had a discussion regarding her activities. Both parties decided to allow the singer to focus on her health for the rest of the year.  Moreover, she then clarified that she won’t be going on a full hiatus unlike last time.

At the end of her message, Joy left an apology to her fans. “I always want to show you the best of myself but it doesn’t go as well as I want. I’m sorry,” she said.

Fans’ unwavering support for Joy

Following the unsolicited comments that Joy received, many of her fans were quick to jump to her defense.  On social media, Reveluvs reassured the artist with warm and positive remarks. Furthermore, a lot of fans expressed their continued support for the artist especially since she had a tough year. 

One fan wrote: “Joy gaining a bit of weight does not make her any less beautiful than she was before. Meanwhile, others said that the singer is “beyond beautiful in any shape.”

https://twitter.com/joysuniverse138/status/1735465978169872509

Moreover, many K-pop fans stated that the Red Velvet member did not need to explain or apologize for her appearance. Wishing for Joy and the rest of Red Velvet members to continue being healthy! 

Featured image: Joy posing for the group’s album ‘Chill Kill.’ Credit: Facebook/RED VELVET

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SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Donates 50M KRW to Shelter for Abandoned Pets

S.Coups, the fearless leader of the boy group SEVENTEEN, recently made another significant contribution to animal welfare. He donated 50 million KRW (approximately 38,500 USD) to Angels’ Nest, a private, non-profit shelter for abandoned animals in South Korea. His agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, revealed what he did.

A warm and healthy winter

Angels’ Nest will use S.Coups’s donation to care for the animals living in the shelter and cover their medical expenses. This shelter is a no-kill facility, meaning it doesn’t euthanize animals that haven’t been adopted yet. Currently, Angels’ Nest has about 200 animals in its care. It relies on donations and volunteers across various fields to sustain its operations.

In South Korea, animal shelters like Angels’ Nest play a key role in offering shelter, protection, and medical treatments for stray, sick, lost, or abandoned animals. These shelters often put animals up for adoption. After a certain period of time, they euthanize those no one adopts.

S.Coups’s donation comes at a crucial time for Angels’ Nest, and the people running it are deeply grateful for his help. “We are sincerely thankful for S.Coups’s benevolence,” the shelter expressed. “Thanks to his warm support, the animals can spend a warm and healthy winter.”

@cheolswallet

🥺🥰💖 #animalsoftiktok #dogsoftiktok #furbabies #kkuma #choiseungcheol #scoups #seungcheol #cutedogs #seventeen

♬ Original Sound – Unknown

S.Coups is a real animal lover

Known for his efforts to promote animal welfare, S.Coups’s actions are not surprising, especially considering how much he loves his own pet. Kkuma, a white Maltese dog, has been a major source of comfort and strength for S.Coups, especially when he went on hiatus for a while to focus on his mental health.

This isn’t the first time S.Coups has extended his support to animal welfare. In September, he donated 30 million KRW to the animal rescue organization WEACT to help save dogs from breeding farms. In February, he donated 20 million KRW to aid recovery efforts after a massive earthquake hit Turkey and Syria.

S.Coups’s acts of kindness underscore the ongoing need for support and attention to animal welfare issues in South Korea. The efforts of organizations like Angels’ Nest are crucial in addressing these issues. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: S.Coups is a dog lover through and through. Source: The Korea Times, X/@rubykies777.

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