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WOODZ Announces Enlistment Date for January 2024

South Korean singer-songwriter WOODZ, also known as Cho Seung Youn, has shared the news of his upcoming military enlistment. 

On Sunday, December 10, the former X1 and UNIQ member disclosed that he is scheduled to commence his military service on January 22, 2024. In a personal message to his devoted fanbase, MOODZ, the idol expressed his sentiments about the approaching enlistment. 

“My military enlistment, which had always seemed so far away, has now arrived. And it feels like I’ve been thinking about my enlistment since last year,” he shared, according to a translation by Soompi. 

In his letter, the singer acknowledged the inevitability of this chapter. Despite this, he emphasized his commitment to fulfill his duties as Cho Seung Youn, distancing himself temporarily from the WOODZ persona.

Reflecting on nearly a decade in the entertainment industry since his debut, WOODZ expressed gratitude for the invaluable memories created with MOODZ. With this, he left a promise to his fans. 

“I’ll come back even healthier, so please stay happy and healthy without getting sick, wherever you are. Once again, thank you to MOODZ for always giving me strength and giving me more love than I deserve,” he said. 

Moreover, South Korean media is reporting that he’ll be serving in the military band. 

Serve well, WOODZ! 

Notably, the enlistment announcement coincided with WOODZ’s ongoing “OO-LI and” world tour.

Despite his imminent departure, he has also confirmed the release of a new digital single titled “AMNESIA,” a song he debuted during his concerts. The single is slated for online release on December 18, adding a poignant note to his musical journey before his military service begins.

To recall, WOODZ gained prominence as a member of the South Korean-Chinese boy band UNIQ, formed under Yuehua Entertainment in 2014. Following the group’s hiatus in 2018, WOODZ ventured into the solo arena. In 2019, he participated in the survival show Produce X 101, where he finished as fifth place. Said show formed the short-lived boy group X1, which disbanded in early 2020 due to vote-rigging allegations.

In a significant career move in October 2022, WOODZ transitioned from Yuehua to EDAM Entertainment.

Throughout his career, the singer-songwriter has demonstrated artistic exploration, experimenting with diverse musical styles and concepts. With his distinctive versatility, fans eagerly anticipate the unveiling of his future endeavors.

Featured image: EDAM Entertainment shares photo of the idol from a pictorial shoot. Credit: Twitter/WOODZ

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BTS’s V Confirmed to Star in IU’s Upcoming Music Video

The K-pop community is abuzz with excitement as BTS member V is confirmed to appear in IU‘s upcoming music video. This collaboration is part of the female soloist’s new album, her first release in two years since Pieces in late 2021. Her previous releases were all well-received, setting high expectations for this new project.

While the exact release date of IU‘s album remains under wraps, the music video was filmed ahead of time to accommodate V‘s schedule. V began his military service on December 11 KST. Recently, it was announced that BTS members RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook would be enlisting in the military. This music video is one of his last projects before his enlistment.

It was previously reported that he signed up to join the Special Duty Team (SDT) of the Army’s Capital Defense Command for his military service. The SDT is an elite military police unit involved in counter-terrorism.

[IU’s Palette🎨] ‘V’egin Again (With V) Ep.24

V and IU blended well together

V and IU showed off their close friendship when V appeared on the YouTube show IU’s Palette. He  appeared on the show to promote his debut solo album Layover, released on September 8. At first, both artists addressed each other formally while filming the episode. Eventually, they transitioned to a more casual manner of speaking.

The episode featured musical performances. They sang each other’s songs, with V singing his track “Slow Dancing” and both doing a duet of IU‘s track “Ending Switch.” V also danced along to IU‘s rendition of his track “Love Me Again.” Fans of both IU and V were delighted with the episode. They praised the two for blending well on their duet, their candid interactions, and their energy.

This marks IU‘s second collaboration with a BTS member, following her previous work with SUGA, another member of BTS. They worked on tracks like “Eight” and SUGA‘s “People Pt. 2.” The combination of IU‘s musical prowess and V‘s charismatic presence is set to make this music video a notable event in the K-pop world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Fans can’t wait to see what IU and the BTS member have come up with. Source: YouTube/@dlwlrma.

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BTS’s Jin Earns Early Promotion to Sergeant

BTS‘s Jin has recently been recognized for his outstanding military service with an early promotion to the rank of Sergeant. On December 4, Jin shared a heartfelt message on the fan community platform Weverse, expressing his gratitude to BTS‘s loyal fandom, the ARMY, for their birthday wishes. He conveyed his sadness at being unable to celebrate with a live broadcast as usual. Jin stated, “Even though we can’t be together, I hope you’re having a good time in your hearts.”

Jin reflected on his military journey, noting, “Already one year has passed since I joined the military. Although there’s still more time left until I return, I’m already excited thinking that I will return soon, since only 1/3 of the military service is left for me.” He ended by thanking everyone for their birthday wishes and proudly announcing his promotion. “With outstanding military service, I’ve been promoted again, and I’m currently Sergeant Kim Seokjin (important).”

@jessielove1131

So happy that finally you made ypur dream come through, to be Sgt. Kim Seok-Jin. #btsjin #btsarmy #happybirthdayjin

♬ The Astronaut – Jin

His first promotion was to the rank of Corporal. He achieved it two months earlier than expected, in recognition of his diligence and athleticism. Jin also earned the “Special Class Warrior” title, given to those who demonstrate exceptional physical endurance and mental fortitude. It’s also given to those who excel in various military training aspects, including shooting and physical fitness.

Later, Jin was promoted again, this time to the rank of Sergeant. Again, he achieved this earlier than expected. A sergeant in the 5th Infantry Division of the South Korean army has specific  responsibilities within this unit. 

Sergeant Jin in the 5th Infantry Division

The 5th Infantry Division, also known as “The Key Division,” is an integral part of the Republic of Korea Army and has been active since April 29, 1948. Stationed in Yeoncheon, Gyeonggi Province, it forms part of the V Corps of the Republic of Korea Army.

As a frontline division, the 5th Infantry Division is responsible for guarding the General Outpost (GOP) and Guard Post (GP) of Yeoncheon County in Gyeonggi Province. It’s an important area, considering its proximity to the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) between North and South Korea. A sergeant’s role in this division blends leadership, operational management, training, administrative responsibilities, and the maintenance of discipline and standards. This position involves leading and supervising lower-ranked soldiers, ensuring that they effectively execute their tasks while adhering to military protocols.

@jkvesor

Our Sergeant Seokjin is bullying the trainee💜😂✌💜 #kimseokjin #btsjin #seokjinie #jhope #bts #ot7 ❤💖❤

♬ Abyss – Jin

The division has various specialized battalions and companies. These include an Engineer Battalion, Maintenance Battalion, Supply & Transport Battalion, Reconnaissance Battalion, Armored Battalion, and others. This implies that sergeants could serve in a variety of roles depending on their specific assignment. Given the strategic importance and history of the 5th Infantry Division, sergeants serving in this unit play a crucial role in maintaining the readiness and effectiveness of the South Korean Army in a key defensive region of the country.

These promotions reflect Jin‘s commitment and hard work during his military service, as well as his ability to meet and exceed the rigorous standards of the South Korean military. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s eldest member is killing it in the South Korean military. Sources: X/@Larasati004 and X/@UniverSeokJINie.

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BTS’ RM Bids Farewell to Fans in a Heartfelt Letter Prior to Military Service

Ahead of his impending military enlistment, RM from BTS has conveyed a heartfelt message to his fans. On Sunday, December 10, the leader took to Weverse to share a touching letter expressing his sentiments with ARMY.

Initially, the rapper revealed that he wanted to convey a lot to his fans. But as he’s writing the letter, he’s struggling to find the right words to express his thoughts. “I feel like there were so many things I wanted to say to you. But now that it’s here, I can’t seem to find the right words,” he wrote, according to a translation by Soompi

RM, or Kim Nam-joon in real life, also looked back at his idol journey, saying that the past decade as a member of BTS has been an immense source of joy for him. “I have faith and I have no doubt that after this passes, new good things will be waiting for us,” he told fans. 

As he starts talking about the military, the BTS leader also acknowledged how hard it must have been for members Seokjin and Hoseok, who enlisted ahead of the rest of the group. Although his realization may come belatedly, RM complimented how his older members faced those difficult challenges. “But seeing them gallantly doing such a great job gives me unparalleled courage,” he said. 

RM assures ARMY 

As military services, in general, can be an uncertain time for both artists and fans, the “Wild Flower”  singer implored to find inspiration instead in the new and unfamiliar circumstances. “Though I’m scared and fearful as well, what could be more comforting than the fact that there is something to anticipate and look forward to during this uncertain time,” he said. 

And the BTS leader declared that it’s the fans’ love who will help him navigate this unfamiliar situation. “Even though there may be times when I feel lonely and melancholy, I think I already feel replete inside with that love,” he said. Additionally, he also hopes that he’ll be able to reciprocate that love by being a constant presence for his supporters. 

Furthermore, instead of parting words, RM said that it’s the “time and love and sincerity” shared between BTS and ARMY that will shape their future. “I wanted to be someone who is always by your side, even when I’m not by your side,” he shared. 

“This goodbye is just a goodbye for a little while. When I return, I will say hello again as I greet you,” he ended the post. “Whenever and wherever we are, here’s hoping that we will be us. Let’s meet in the future. I love you a lot.” 

Will wait for you in 2025, BTS! 

Together with Jimin, V, and Jungkook, they’re the only remaining members of the K-pop powerhouse who have yet to fulfill their respective military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In November, BigHit Music announced that the four remaining members have already initiated the military enlistment process.

Consequently, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: BTS’ RM poses for his solo album ‘Indigo.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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JYP Entertainment to Hold Open Auditions in Five Korean Cities

JYP Entertainment, a leading K-pop agency known for producing world-renowned artists like ITZY, NMIXX, Stray Kids, and TWICE, is gearing up for its 18th official annual audition. Set to take place across five cities in Korea next January, these auditions follow the agency’s successful 17th public audition in January 2023 and the JYP THE NEXT WAVE audition in August.

X/thejypnews

The auditions will begin in Daejeon on January 13, followed by stops in Gwangju on January 14, Busan on January 20 and Daegu on January 21. It will end in Seoul from January 27-28. Successful candidates from the final round will receive trainee contracts at the agency.

A trainee contract generally lasts between two to four years. This contract doesn’t guarantee a debut. It simply means the company accepted the person into its training program. Trainees undergo rigorous training in various disciplines such as acting, dance, language, and singing. As if that wasn’t tough enough, they have to compete with each other for a chance to debut.

Which JYP artists went to the open auditions?

Several artists from JYP Entertainment found fame through the agency’s open auditions. These include Wooyoung of 2PM, Seungmin of Stray Kids, Nayeon and Jeongyeon of TWICE, and Jungsu of Xdinary Heroes. Nayeon joined the agency after placing second out of 30,000 applicants in the 2010 JYP 7th open audition, and Jeongyeon was discovered in the 6th Open Audition. The open auditions played a crucial role in shaping their careers. They provided a platform where their talents could be recognized and nurtured.

[PREDEBUT] Stray Kids – Kim Seungmin | JYP 13th Audition

“The application rate for the 17th open audition earlier this year, the first in three years, surged by approximately 40 percent compared to the 16th audition. Encouraged by the success of the 17th audition, we anticipate an even greater response for the upcoming 18th public audition,” the agency noted in an official press release. 

Prospective talents can submit their applications through the official JYP audition site. Eligible candidates are those born between 2006 and 2014. They may showcase their skills in one of five categories: acting, dance, model, rap, or vocal. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The agency expects a very good turnout for the upcoming auditions. Source: X/@thejypnews.

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Look: Lee Sung Kyoung to Release Solo Single

Renowned for her memorable roles in dramas like Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo and Shooting Stars, South Korean actress Lee Sung Kyoung is now making headlines for her solo music debut. 

Since December 4, YG Entertainment has been releasing posters and teasers for the actress’ upcoming single titled Eat Sleep Live Repeat. Moreover, the agency said that the special release will showcase a new side of Sung Kyoung as an artist. 

“You’ll be able to see not only Lee Sung Kyoung’s unique depth of emotion, but also her unlimited potential as a multi-talented entertainer,” YG Entertainment said. “Please look forward to the new content that will be revealed.” 

Although no other details have been provided yet, fans are already looking forward to the artist’s new release. Prior to the upcoming single, Sung Kyoung has already showcased her vocal prowess through various drama OSTs. 

Some of her collaborations include “My Lips Like Warm Coffee” with Eddy Kim, “I Love You” with The Papers, and Love” with Loco. Meanwhile, she sang OSTs for projects Trolls, About Times, and Miss & Mrs. 

Furthermore, fans are also eager to listen to the new song as the title itself promises to feature simple and uncomplicated matters in life.  Thankfully, fans won’t have to wait any longer as Eat Sleep Live Repeat is set for a December 13 release. 

A new side of Lee Sung Kyoung 

She started her modeling career in 2008 after competing in the local SuperModel contest. Since then, she has become a familiar face for fashion and luxury brands. Notably, she’s one of the first female models that got signed by YGK-Plus, a collaboration between YG Entertainment and K-Plus. 

As for acting, her journey took off with a supporting role in the popular series It’s Okay, That’s Love and Cheese in the Trap. From then, she continued to evolve as a versatile actress. Among her other notable works include Dr. Romantic 2 and Call It Love. 

Since she’s known for her ability to connect with audiences through versatile character portrayals, her upcoming single is also expected to captivate listeners. As she continues to diversify her career, fans eagerly anticipate the experiences that Sung Kyoung has to offer. 

Featured image: YG Entertainment shares a teaser of Lee Sung Kyoung’s single. Credit: Twitter/YG Entertainment

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Watch: NCT U Releases New Song ‘Marine Turtle’

NCT U, a subdivision of the larger NCT group, released their latest single, “Marine Turtle” on Wednesday, December 6. 

It served as the nine release in SM Entertainment’s innovative NCT LAB initiative. 

Moreover, the collaborative efforts within the NCT LAB continues as WayV‘s Kun and Xiaojun teaming up with NCT Dream’s Renjun and Chenle for “Marine Turtle.” 

Both in the teaser photos and music video, the members were seen posing at the beach. The song, available in both Chinese and Korean, falls under the pop genre, blending a guiding synth melody and emotive vocal harmonies. 

Furthermore, the lyrics draw a poignant analogy, comparing the determination to forge ahead in life to a marine turtle hatching from its egg and embarking on a journey into the sea.

Notably, Chenle  also played a role in its composition, showcasing the multifaceted musical abilities of NCT members. Additionally, fellow NCT member Mark also lent his talents to the lyric-writing process.

‘Marine Turtle’ as part of NCT LAB releases

For those unfamiliar, NCT LAB is a SM Station series allowing NCT members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks outside of regular NCT albums. In January 2022, the project was first announced, with Mark kicking it off with his solo release “Child.” 

Meanwhile, its first unit song “coNEXTion (Age of Light)” was sung by members Doyoung, Mark, and Haechan. Notably, the song also featured a performance by Shotaro, who is now a member of RIIZE.  Then, it was followed by another unit song Rainy Day,” which was performed by Kun, Taeil, and Yangyang. 

For the rest of 2022, NCT LAB released two more tracks: Jaehyun’s “Forever Only” and Ten’s “Birthday.” 

In 2023, Mark and Jaehyun both released their second NCT Lab solo tracks. Meanwhile, Taeil and Haechan also released their duet track N.C.Y.T.”

With “Marine Turtle” as the latest release, there will already be nine songs under NCT LAB. 

Currently, SM Entertainment has yet to announce their next NCT LAB song to be released. But it was earlier teased that Kun also has a solo track under the lineup. 

Which other NCT member would you want to see release a NCT LAB song next?

Featured image: Kun, Chenle, Xiaojun, and Renjun collaborate for ‘Marine Turtle.’ Credit: Twitter/NCT

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SEVENTEEN Gets Emotional After Winning Their First Daesang at the Mama Awards

SEVENTEEN achieved a significant milestone at the 2023 MAMA Awards, clinching their first Daesang for Album of the Year with their 10th mini-album, FML.

Notably, it was the act’s third accolade from the award-giving body as they already triumphed in the Best Male Group and Best Dance Performance Male Group categories.

Furthermore, the impact of SEVENTEEN‘s win extended beyond their stellar performance, resonating deeply with fans, industry figures, and netizens alike. Actress Uhm Jung Hwa, who announced the final award of the night, couldn’t contain her emotions as she revealed the group’s well-deserved win for FML. “It’s finally them, everyone. It’s finally them,” she said, echoing the sentiments of devoted CARATs worldwide.

Notably, leader S.Coups, who had been on hiatus due to an injury since August, made a surprise appearance during the MAMA Awards. Such appearance, as well as all the members doing a group hug, intensified the emotional atmosphere.

SEVENTEEN members expressed their gratitude

In each members’ heartfelt speeches, they reminisced how their journey started from humble beginnings. In particular, Hoshi recalled how they weren’t able to take home any win during their first MAMA Awards appearance. But their daesang win has proven their monumental progress as they walked away with the grand prize nine years later. 

Meanwhile member DK admitted that he never even dreamt of receiving such a prestigious award in his life. “All 13 of us worked so hard until here and we’re going to continue doing so,” he said. 

Throughout the almost 10 minute speech, the members also visibly appeared to be holding back tears as they expressed their gratitude to fans and industry peers. 

Even Woozi, the group’s songwriter and producer, couldn’t contain his emotions as he looked back at their rough start. “Our group had a lot of fingers pointed at us at the beginning – that we won’t make it, that there’s too many of us so it won’t work. But it’s been over 10 years since I’ve been making music for SEVENTEEN. Now that it’s the 10th/11th year, I really thank CARATs for rewarding us with this moment,” he said. 

As the last speaker, Seungkwan also made sure to extend appreciation to fellow artists in the industry. “Whether or not you received an award, this job isn’t easy. But I hope we can keep supporting each other going forward,” he said. 

In a touching moment, Seungkwan remembered Moonbin, a close friend and supporter of SEVENTEEN. The ASTRO member passed away in April 2023 at the age of 25. “Thank you to my friend Binnie who has always loved and supported our team,” he added. 

Following the group’s win, many of their fans worldwide took to social media to commend SEVENTEEN for their touching speeches. 

Featured image: The group poses with their trophies after the MAMA Awards 2023. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy, from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s Spicyand BTS Jungkook’s “Sevenfeat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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YG Entertainment to Hold Nationwide Auditions in 2024

Dreaming of becoming labelmates with your favorite K-pop groups BLACKPINK and TREASURE? Well, your chance is here as YG Entertainment has officially announced the 2024 YG NATIONAL AUDITION TOUR. 

The large-scale audition tour is scheduled to kick off on January 13, 2024, and run until February 18, 2024. It will span across eight cities, including Jeju, Gwangju, Jeonju, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Wonju, and Seoul

The audition welcomes young participants residing in South Korea that are born between 2006 and 2013. Additionally, there are no gender or nationality requirements. Notably, interested applicants can choose among four categories:  singing, rapping, dancing, and visual. 

As for the audition process, it will involve both pre-registration and on-site registration. Aspiring participants can pre-register by accessing the QR code on the official poster and submitting the Google Form application form 10 days prior to the audition date in each region. Meanwhile, the on-site registration is also available until 4 PM on the audition day.

What’s next for YG Entertainment?

As one of the biggest management labels in the K-pop industry, the audition tour is already gaining significant interest. Especially since YG Entertainment appears to be keen in looking for talents that could follow the footsteps of their iconic groups such as BIGBANG and 2NE1. 

However, the sudden announcement also caught some confusion among the netizens as it came after the recent debut of BABYMONSTER. Furthermore, the agency has earlier confirmed that the rookie idol girl group won’t be participating in music shows to promote their debut single “Batter Up.Because of that, fans are lamenting that the agency should focus first on prioritizing their newest act instead of looking for more potential artists. 

Aside from that, the past two years have also seen the departure of several artists from YG Entertainment. Between 2022 and 2023, BIGBANG members Daesung, Taeyang, and G-Dragon, as well as the group iKON have left the agency. 

Currently, YG Entertainment is home to acts AKMU, Sechkies, WINNER, BLACKPINK, and TREASURE. Recently, the label confirmed that all four members of BLACKPINK have renewed their contracts for group activities. 

Featured image: BABYMONSTER makes their debut with ‘Batter Up.’ Credit: Twitter/BABYMONSTER

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