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ENHYPEN’s Leader Jungwon Praised for His Dedication to ENGENEs

ENHYPEN‘s Jungwon recently became the center of attention after a community post lauding his dedication to fans went viral. The post in question was viewed over 72,000 times in just a few hours. Known for his stage presence, exceptional vocals, and charming visuals, Jungwon is now being praised for something entirely different. 

Jungwon’s June 2023 updates. Source: Nate Pann

A fan pointed out that since June, Jungwon has been consistently supplying fans with new content every single day. Fans have even created update charts to track his daily interactions, filled with various selfies and photos shared across social media platforms. You can check out two of them here. See how he updated fans every day in June? Jungwon did the same thing every month after that, all the way through to November.

This regular engagement has left fans feeling well-fed with his daily selfies or comments and posts on Weverse. From June to November 2023, Jungwon has been checking in every single day without fail, a stark contrast to some idols who barely update once a month. His commitment to keeping ENGENEs informed and connected has earned him the title of a “legendarily filial idol” among netizens, a term that combines the extraordinary nature of his actions (“legendary”) with the care and attention akin to a familial relationship (“filial”).

@yjwon.lover

jungwon is an epitome of what truly consistent is. i love every version of him, but his consistency is my favorite that i can no longer end my day without his update. 🥺💖 #JUNGWON #ENHYPEN #fyp

♬ The Most Beautiful Thing – Live Acoustic Version – Sonja Midtune

Netizens talk about Jungwon

Netizens have expressed their admiration for Jungwon‘s dedication. One fan commented, “FR, Kitty Jungwon will go down in the idol industry as a legendarily filial idol. Even though other members often do individual live streams, Jungwon is the most active on the playback page.” 

Jungwon’s November 2023 updates. Source: Nate Pann

Another netizen added, “He’s so impressive… But is communicating with fans such a hard thing? You can just invest five to ten minutes… I don’t get the idols who don’t.” Yet another netizen said, “He’s the idol out of all that I’ve liked so far, that works the hardest to communicate and takes care of fans the best.”

Jungwon‘s dedication to his fans truly sets him apart as an idol who not only excels in his career but also in his commitment to his fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It couldn’t have been easy for Jungwon to do this, given his packed schedule, so he deserves every bit of praise he got for pulling this off! Source: X/@archiveofyjgw.

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Byeon Woo Seok Sizzles in New Calvin Klein Photoshoot

Byeon Woo Seok, the South Korean actor and model, has recently become the new face of Calvin Klein, joining the ranks of other high-profile celebrities like Son Heung Min, BLACKPINK‘s Jennie, and BTS‘s Jungkook. Standing at an impressive 6’2”, the 32-year-old has been making waves in the entertainment industry since 2014.

eyesmag

Byeon Woo Seok first stepped into the acting world with the SBS historical drama Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo. He continued to build his acting portfolio with roles in Search: WWW in 2019, where he received rave reviews, and Flower Crew: Joseon Marriage Agency. His appearance in the 2020 TVN television series Record of Youth solidified his reputation as a good actor.

In 2021, he starred in the KBS2 historical drama Moonshine, playing a rebellious crown prince and winning the 2022 KBS Drama Awards for Best New Actor. His filmography expanded with major roles in 20th Century Girl and Soulmate in 2022, and in 2023, he landed a lead role in tvN’s time-slip fantasy drama, Loverly Runner.

Byeon Woo Seok does eyesmag

Recently, Byeon Woo Seok did a Christmas-themed advertisement for Calvin Klein, which he posted on his Instagram. Also, he and actress Go Minsi appeared in an eyesmag feature, where they wore pieces from the brand. Flaunting his solid body line, he modeled a total of four items. 

eyesmag

The CK Black program’s low-rise trunks offer a comfortable fit with a skin-soft touch. They’re made from stretchable nylon material for enhanced mobility. Other featured items include the low-rise trunks from the Embossed Icon program with a contrasting color logo, the Future Shift program designed with a 3D shape, and the 1996 Micro program.

Fans and fashion enthusiasts can find these products from the photoshoot at Calvin Klein’s online mall (calvinklein.co.kr). They’re also available at Naver Smart Store, and Calvin Klein Underwear stores. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Doesn’t Byeon Woo Seok look amazing in these photos? Source: eyesmag.

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BTS’s Jin Sends His Hyung to Visit a Birthday Exhibition

An exhibit in honor of BTS member Jin took place over three days, from December 1 to 3, 2023. His fans held the event at the HiKR Ground in the Korea Tourism Organization’s Seoul office. It’s located at 40 Cheonggyecheon-ro, Jung-gu, Seoul. It was one of the biggest fan-organized events in the world, befitting Jin’s superstar status. 

The exhibit took up three floors. Fans received free entry and special gifts at the door. It featured tall electronic panels that bore a Christmas theme, as well as images of the BTS member affectionately known as “Worldwide Handsome.” Fans could take photos with these panels and explore a space-themed room, a nod to Jin’s love for space.

His hyung (older brother) attended the event, revealing that Jin, who is still serving in the military, had asked him to do so in his stead. “Came back from visiting the exhibition event the fans arranged for my dongsaeng‘s birthday. On behalf of our family, I’d like to say thank you to the people who have put together this amazing place with a lot of effort. My dongsaeng, who is currently in the military base and would have difficulty traveling, asked me to attend and convey thanks on his behalf. So I’m relaying it through this post. Thank you,” Jin’s brother wrote on Instagram.

@taetaekosmos

Seokjin knows about this beautiful exhibition – i am going to cry 😭😭😭 #HappyBirthdayJin #JinDay2023 #kimseokjin #jinbts #jin #seokjin #btsedit #bts_official_bighit #bangtanboys #bangtansonyeondan방탄소년단 #btsforyoupage #bangtan #bts

♬ Moon – BTS

Jin thanked fans on Weverse

Jin, who just celebrated his first birthday as a soldier, expressed his gratitude to fans in a message. “Thank you very much to everyone who wished me a happy birthday. I usually do live streams with ARMY on my birthday, but I can’t this year. That breaks my heart,” he shared on Weverse. He reassured fans that although he can’t be with them right now, he’s thinking of them.

Reflecting on his time in the South Korean military, Jin conveyed his excitement to reunite with fans when he’s discharged next year. “There’s still a lot of time left, but I’m already excited to be with you,” Jin continued in his note to fans. “Oh, and our members are going to join the army. I hope that time passes quickly and I can have a good time with the members and the ARMYs.”

His mandatory military service began on December 13, 2022 and he’s due to return in June 2024. This news has sent the group’s devoted followers into an online frenzy, eagerly awaiting his return. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: If Jin could’ve gone himself, he would’ve. Sources: X/@Elizabe68310078 and @jinnieslamp.

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ATEEZ Concludes First Chapter With ‘The World Ep. Fin: Will’

ATEEZ recently released their second full-length album, The World Ep. Fin: Will. It’s special to the members Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho, as they helped write some of its 12 tracks. During a press conference in Seoul, leader Hongjoong reflected on the album, saying, “It took us four years to release our second studio album. This album wraps up our five years as ATEEZ and previews what’s to come in the following years.”

The album includes standout tracks like “Arriba,” “Crazy Form,” “Emergency,” “Silver Light,” and “We Know,” each adding a unique flavor to the overall sound. Commercially, The World Ep. Fin: Will set new records for ATEEZ, selling 1,707,870 copies in its first week and debuting at No. 1 on the Circle weekly album chart. This marks the group’s eighth number-one hit on the Circle chart.

The title track, “Crazy Form,” is an afrobeat dancehall tune that earned significant attention. Its music video was viewed 19.2 million times in the first 24 hours of its release. “Crazy Form” also won first place on the December 6 episode of Show Champion. Hongjoong explained their choice of the title track, saying, “We thought that our title track could be too simple. But at the same time, we thought it was a great track to emphasize our performance.”

ATEEZ announces world tour

The album also has three unit tracks and one solo track. “Matz,” a hip-hop number by Hongjoong and Seonghwa, showcases their energy. “It’s You,” featuring San, Wooyoung, and Yeosang, offers a groovy rhythm and mystical melody. “Youth,” an alternative pop song by Mingi and Yunho, addresses the concerns of people in their 20s. Lastly, “Everything,” a solo track by Jongho, highlights his vocal talent.

Looking ahead, Hongjoong elaborated on the group’s aspirations. “I think this is an album that can make the public look forward to our releases in the years to come. This year marks our fifth debut anniversary and so far, our greatest achievement has been establishing a strong relationship with our fans around the world. We hope to continue presenting music that can make our fans proud of us.”

In other news, ATEEZ has announced a new world tour in 2024. The tour’s title is TOWARDS THE LIGHT: WILL TO POWER. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ATEEZ ends their first chapter to begin a promising new one! Source: X/@zhouang.

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BLACKPINK Renews Contract With YG Entertainment for Group Activities

All four members of BLACKPINK have officially extended their contracts with their original agency, YG Entertainment, for future group activities, putting an end to the speculation surrounding the acclaimed K-pop sensation’s future.

On Wednesday, December 6, YG Entertainment announced that they’ve successfully secured exclusive contracts for group endeavors with Jisoo, Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa. A representative from the label emphasized that this decision was reached after thorough discussions and is founded on a deep sense of trust between the parties involved.

After careful discussions with BLACKPINK, we signed exclusive contracts for group activities based on deep trust,” YG Entertainment said, according to a Soompi report. 

 

Furthermore, Yang Hyun Suk, the executive producer at YG Entertainment, expressed his joy in continuing the collaborative journey with BLACKPINK. He said: “BLACKPINK will continue to do their best to shine even brighter in the global music market as artists representing not only our agency but also K-pop, and we send our unwavering support and faith for their future steps.”

According to South Korean media reports, the contract renewal will see the quartet release new music and hold another large-scale world tour soon. 

BLACKPINK still in our area

While the renewal covers group activities, there has been no official announcement regarding the members’ solo pursuits yet. 

Since the quartet’s original contract with YG Entertainment expired in August, there’s speculation that the members would pursue individual activities with other agencies. To recall, there were reports claiming that Lisa will be signing with an American agency, while Jennie and Jisoo will allegedly set up their own labels. Notably, these reports also included deals that allegedly promised business and promotional opportunities for the artists outside of their K-pop activities. 

Although there’s no news about the members’ contract for their solo activities, the latest news concludes months of uncertainty about BLACKPINK’s future as a group. 

Since their debut in 2016 with hit singles like “Whistle” and “Boombayah,” BLACKPINK has risen to become one of the most commercially successful female acts in the K-pop industry.  

Furthermore, they also made history as the first K-pop act to headline the renowned Coachella music festival in the United States, solidifying their global influence and popularity. Recently, the members were also awarded with honorary memberships in the Order of the British Empire.

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

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BigHit Music Shares Update on Military Enlistment of Remaining BTS Members

BigHit Music, the agency of K-pop juggernaut BTS, has unveiled additional details about the impending military enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook.

In a statement released on Tuesday, December 5, BigHit Music confirmed that the four members would be fulfilling their mandatory military service soon. According to the label, RM and V would follow their respective military enlistment procedures. Meanwhile, Jimin and Jungkook are scheduled to enlist simultaneously. 

Furthermore, the agency announced that there would be no official event on the day of their entry into the military. Additionally, BigHit Music emphasized that entrance ceremonies are private affairs that should only be attended solely by military personnel and the members’ families. With this, fans were strongly advised against visiting the site to prevent any potential issues like crowding. 

“Please convey your warm regards and encouragement in your hearts only,” the agency said. 

Moreover, BigHit Music  also cautioned fans against purchasing any tours or products that unlawfully utilized BTS intellectual property. As such, they also vowed to take necessary legal actions against any commercial activity involving these unauthorized use of IPs. 

At the end of their statement, the agency asked for the fans’ continued love and support for the BTS members until they return from finishing their respective military services. “Our company will also strive to provide all the support they need during this time,” they said. 

BTS to reconvene as a full group in 2025

In November, BigHit Music announced that members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook— have already initiated the military enlistment process. 

Notably, the  four are the only remaining members of the seven-piece act who are yet to commence their 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 their latest post, 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. On top of that, there’s also speculation as to what divisions and which boot camps the members will enlist. But BigHit Music refused to confirm any reports. 

 

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: RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook for the group’s 2022 Festa photos. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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FT Island’s Minhwan and Yulhee Announce Divorce After 5 Years of Marriage

South Korean celebrities Choi Minhwan and Kim Yulhee, have decided to end their five-year marriage. 

On late Monday, December 4, both parties announced the news in their respective Instagram posts. 

After much time, effort, and discussion, we have decided to support each other on separate paths. Although our journey as a couple has come to an end, our roles as parents to our children persist,” Yulhee, a former member of K-pop girl group LABOUM, wrote, according to a translation by Soompi

Minhwan and Yulhee are parents to three children. They welcomed their first child in May 2018, followed by the birth of their twin daughters in February 2020. 

In her post, Yulhee explained that they’ll remain to prioritize their children, promising that they’ll take care of them “to the best of [their] abilities.” Moreover, she also revealed that the children would continue to reside with their father to avoid any psychological distress. Despite this current living situation, Yulhee also emphasized that she spent ample time with the children to ensure that the impact of her absence would be minimal. 

While she was initially worried about sharing the news, Yulhee sought understanding from their fans as it was a difficult decision for all parties involved. But she assured that it was a choice they made “for each other’s happiness” and after “extensive deliberation.” 

The relationship of Minhwan and Yulhee

Following Yulhee’s post, Minhwan also confirmed the news in his own Instagram. “After extensive discussions, my wife and I have come to the decision to conclude our marriage,” he wrote. 

Furthermore, the FT ISLAND member expressed his gratitude and apologies to their families, team members, and fans who had supported them. Amidst the difficult situation, he pledged to not neglect his duties as a father. “I will do my utmost to fulfill my role and ensure our children do not carry any emotional scars,” he said. 

To recall, Minhwan and Yulhee first confirmed their relationship in September 2017. Two months after announcing that they’re a couple, Yulhee left the group LABOUM. According to her agency, Yulhee “no longer wishes to be in the entertainment industry.” 

In May 2018, their agencies confirmed they’ve legally registered their marriage, just days after the FT ISLAND member announced that his partner is pregnant. Their private wedding ceremony was held in October 2018. 

Throughout their marriage, Minhwan also appeared on the variety show Mr. House Husband wherein he showcased his parenting journey with his three children. 

Featured image: Choi Minhwan and Kim Yulhee tied the knot in October 2018. Credit: FNC Entertainment via Soompi

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TAN’s Lee Jaejun Kisses Lee Jihan in ‘City Boy Log’

The City Boy Log series, featuring TAN’s Lee Jaejun and model Lee Jihan, recently became the center of attention in the K-pop community. Posted on YouTube, this series comes across as a hybrid of a Boys’ Love (BL) drama and a vlog, highlighting the duo’s undeniable on-screen chemistry.

In an episode set in Okinawa, the two are shown sneaking out to buy snacks and drinks, later sharing wine in their room. The episode takes a significant turn when Jaejun admits his admiration for Jihan’s free-spirited nature, leading to a pivotal point in the series that changes the dynamic between the two.

#6 “Let’s take it easy honey… It’s my first time…” Vlog | City Boy Log

‘City Boy Log’ goes viral

The episode begins with a suggestive scene in darkness, with only the sounds of Jaejun and Jihan groaning and talking. After their snack run, the pair return to their room. The atmosphere changes as they lie in bed together, sharing wine. Jaejun’s confession culminates in a kiss, followed by a passionate makeout session. Jihan eventually turns the camera off, suggesting further intimacy.

This clip has gone viral, garnering significant views and surprising many with its explicit content, which is more daring than what is typically seen in Korean BL dramas. This isn’t the first time the pair have shared a kiss; they briefly kissed in the third episode of the series. As such, fans are hoping that City Boy Log is a precursor to a full-length BL K-drama starring the pair.

‘HEARTBEAT’ (TAN JAEJUN FanCam) @SBS Inkigayo 230813

About rising star Lee Jaejun

Lee Jaejun, also known as Jaejun, is a South Korean singer and a member of the boy group T.A.N. Born on September 25, 1997, in Cheongju, South Korea, he first debuted in July 2012 with C-Clown and stayed in the music industry even after the group’s disbandment. In 2021, he ranked No. 5 in MBC’s Extreme Debut: Wild Idol, leading to his debut in T.A.N. He stands 175 cm (5 feet 9 inches) tall and weighs 56 kg (123 lbs). His blood type is A, and his Zodiac sign is Libra. He’s active on Instagram under the handle @jjun_0925.

The full episode featuring this intriguing development in City Boy Log is available to watch online. Fans are hopeful that this means good things are in store for Jaejun and Jihan in the K-drama world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The sixth episode of ‘City Boy Log’ became a viral sensation on the BL side of social media. Source: YouTube/@CITYBOY_LOG.

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N.Flying’s Yoo Hwe Seung Drops ‘What I Decided to Die For’ OST

N.Flying’s Yoo Hwe Seung has recently released a new original soundtrack (OST) for the Naver webtoon What I Decided to Die For. The track, titled “Love Me Baby,” became available on streaming platforms starting 6:00 PM on the 30th.

“Love Me Baby” is an urban rock song with a strong guitar foundation, featuring Yoo Hwe Seung’s intense vocal lines and a vibrant band sound that enhances the song’s progression and climax. The lyrics, reflecting the depth of the character Cha Gyeol, grow more intense towards the end, with Yoo Hwe Seung’s powerful voice adding to the emotional impact. Key lines include “I’m circling the universe for you. I can never leave,” and “If you see me somewhere, please don’t look away.”

Following the first OST “n-th Universe,” which was about the love story of Cha Gyeol and Ji Oh, “Love Me Baby” sets Cha Gyeol’s deep emotions to music. Released after the webtoon’s finale, the song adds a new dimension to the narrative. Both new readers and those familiar with the webtoon’s ending will appreciate the song.

[MV] 유회승 (엔플라잉) – Love Me Baby

Yoo Hwe Seung: The voice behind the music

Yoo Hwe Seung, a South Korean singer, songwriter, and musical theater actor, is the main vocalist of N.Flying. He began his journey in the music industry with FNC Entertainment in 2016, and gained popularity on the survival show Produce 101 Season 2.

After his appearance on Produce 101 Season 2, where he ranked 39th, Yoo Hwe Seung joined N.Flying and debuted with the group in August 2017. His work extends beyond N.Flying, as he has recorded OSTs for the K-dramas Criminal Minds and Hwayugi. Born in Seoul, Yoo Hwe Seung stands at 175 cm and weighs 62 kg, and has three older sisters.

Yoo Hwe Seung is an influential figure in the South Korean music industry. He recently completed N.Flying’s Forest of Travelers tour and played the lead in the musical Mozart!. He is also known for his exceptional vocal talent, appearing in shows like King of Mask Singer and My Ears’ Candy.

[Webtoon MV] Yoo Hwe-seung (N.Flying)

A tale of love and turmoil

What I Decided to Die For was created by YUJU. Launched on December 6, 2021, and updated weekly on Tuesdays, it quickly earned a massive following. It was best known for its depiction of the male lead and its themes of drama, mystery, and psychological challenges.

The story revolved around Ji Oh, a high school senior dealing with late puberty and an injury before a major Taekwondo competition, and Cha Gyeol, a mysterious yet charming boy. Their relationship, marked by the latter’s “bad boy with a good heart” image, unfolded amidst emotional and challenging situations. That drew readers into a world of deep romance and self-discovery.

What I Decided to Die For explored life’s unexpected twists and turns. It offered a narrative that was both engaging and thought-provoking, making a strong impression on its readers. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: His passionate vocals complement the webtoon’s emotional scenes. Source: YouTube/@vlending.

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BTS’s V Enlists in Elite Army Capital Defense Command Unit

Kim Taehyung, also known as V from BTS, has joined 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. It handles violent crimes, carries out special operations in cities, and captures armed deserters.

V went through a tough selection process for the SDT, which demands high intelligence and more. His application included document checks, interviews, and physical tests. He applied in late August and early September, was interviewed in October, and got accepted later that month. He’ll be enlisting in a few days.

@audraot7

My man is so passionate with his duity towards his country.. proud of you💜stay safe baby bear 🐻💜 사랑한다💜 Follow 👉🏻 me 👈🏻 for more 🌻 #lusciouspoppy #lusciouspoppybts #lusciousarmy #oc #dontrepost #thv #kimtaehyung #kthv #toomuch #layoverv #김태형 #태형 #방탄소년단 #비티에스 #비티에스아미 #bts #btsarmy #indianbtsarmy #instagramexplore #instagramexplorepage #foryou #viral #foryoupage #fy #fypage #fyp #fypシ #fypシ゚viralシ

♬ Dramatic Military – Faid rafanda

From BTS member to ‘Captain’

As news of V’s application for the SDT spread, fans started referring to him as “Captain” on social media. They also expressed shock and admiration that he decided to do something so daring. V’s decision is another way he’s contributing to his country, adding to the pride he has already brought to South Korea as a global celebrity.

V will report to the Nonsan Training Center on December 11 for basic military training, after which he will be assigned to his respective unit. His enlistment is part of the BTS members’ broader enlistment process. Jin, the group’s oldest member, began his military service on December 13, 2022. j-hope followed by enlisting on April 18, 2023, and SUGA started his enlistment on September 22, 2023. Meanwhile, RM, Jimin, and Jungkook, will join the army very soon too.

South Korea Army (Capital Defense Command) SGT Demo

The history and role of the SDT

The SDT is a distinguished Special Forces unit within the South Korean military, primarily responsible for conducting counter-terrorist operations. Its function is similar to the National Police Agency’s Special Operations Unit (SOU). The SDT, as an elite military police unit, specializes in counter-terrorism, responding to violent crimes, arresting armed deserters within the military, conducting special operations, and executing mobile strikes in urban areas. The unit’s motto, “Protecting the Republic of Korea!” signifies its dedication to national security.

Established in the 1990s in response to increasing threats from North Korea, the SDT’s primary role includes maintaining security and order within military barracks, serving as gate guards, and guarding checkpoints to watch for intruders. The unit has motorized units, such as motorcycles and other police vehicles, for patrolling assigned areas. The SDT, as a special operations team within the military police, exemplifies South Korea’s military’s adaptive and responsive approach to evolving security challenges. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BTS’s V cut a dashing figure in CELINE’s latest posts. Source: X/@btspicstwt_.

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