Category: BTS

Bangtansonyeondan—more popularly known as BTS—is a South Korean boy band who debuted in 2013 under Big Hit Entertainment (now HYBE). The group comprises seven members: Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook. Together, they have become one of the world’s most popular and successful music groups, with a devoted fan base known as the “ARMY.”

BTS first gained attention in South Korea with their debut single “No More Dream,” but it wasn’t until their hit song “Blood Sweat & Tears” that they truly broke through to the mainstream. Since then, they have released many successful albums, including “Love Yourself: Tear,” “Map of the Soul: 7,” and “BE (Deluxe Edition).”

One thing that sets BTS apart from other K-pop groups is their dedication to creating music with meaningful lyrics. Many of their songs address social issues, such as mental health and self-love, and the group has earned a lot of praise for their positive influence on young people.

In addition to their music, BTS is known for their energetic and visually stunning live performances. They have toured extensively, performing in arenas and stadiums worldwide, and have won numerous awards for their concerts.

BTS has also made a name for themselves outside of the music industry. They have been featured in several magazines, including Rolling Stone and Time, and have appeared on famous US talk shows such as The Late Show with James Corden and The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon.

The success of BTS has made them role models for many fans, and they are known for their philanthropy and charitable work. Together with UNICFE, they launched their Love Myself campaign in 2018 to promote self-acceptance and end violence against children and young people.

BTS is a global phenomenon that has significantly impacted the music industry and beyond. Their talent, dedication, and positive message have earned them a massive and loyal fan base that continues to grow each day.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jungkook Shares His Routine and More With Vogue Japan

Jungkook

BTS‘s Jungkook recently sat down with Vogue Japan. Known for his dedication and talent, the golden maknae’s revelations about his routine, fashion, and music provide a closer look at the star’s life. He may be off in the South Korean military now, but he prepared content like this before enlisting so fans won’t miss him too much.

Jungkook‘s routine, especially when he’s overseas, has evolved recently. “Lately, I’ve cut down on my weight training and do about 30 minutes of cardio exercise. Thirty minutes of it will help me burn about 300 kilocalories. My habit in the morning and night is to look at my phone when I wake up and do the same at night before I sleep,” he shares.

Shifting from weight training to cardio exercises, while burning around 300 kilocalories per session, can lead to improved cardiovascular health. Cardio exercises like running or cycling are effective in strengthening the heart and lungs, enhancing endurance, and reducing the risk of heart diseases. This change might also aid in weight management due to the higher calorie burn, potentially leading to fat loss if combined with a balanced diet.

JUNG KOOK Answers 5 Questions About His Routine | VOGUE JAPAN

Fashion faves

When traveling, Jungkook‘s must-have items are quite straightforward. His phone tops the list, followed by his passport. Interestingly, he also referred to Calvin Klein items as essentials, though he playfully withheld further details. 

Jungkook didn’t specify which Calvin Klein items are his favorites, but fans may remember the pieces he wore during his performance at the TSX stage last month. Those items—and others from the Fall 2023 collection, for which Jungkook did a photoshoot—are available on Calvin Klein’s website.

He did say that he enjoys matching Calvin Klein outfits and denim tops with bottoms. Comfort is key for him, as he prefers oversized shoes and clothes, with knitted hats being a particular favorite.

Jung Kook Live at TSX, Times Square

Jungkook is in his golden era

When asked about his current focus, Jungkook joked that he was concentrating on the interview. However, he also mentioned working hard on his new album, which was in preparation at the time of the interview. This album, titled GOLDEN, seems to be a significant milestone for him.

The concept of “gold” holds a special place in Jungkook‘s life. He shared a personal story about something that happened while his mother was pregnant with him. “She had a dream about gold. I feel that I’m shining the most now. ‘Golden’ has the word ‘gold’ in it too. So I think now’s my golden era.” Speaking of his parents, Jungkook attributes his talents and character to them, describing these traits as golden.

Jungkook‘s interview with Vogue Japan not only sheds light on his personal preferences and routines but also highlights his journey and growth as an artist. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Vogue Japan’s new video went a long way towards comforting ARMYs who were saddened when Jungkook left to serve in the military. Source: YouTube/@VogueJapan.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS, BLACKPINK Hailed as Google’s Most Searched Bands in Its 25-Year History

BTS poses for FESTA 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Rejoice, ARMYs and BLINKs! South Korean groups BTS and BLACKPINK achieve another historic feat in their careers.

In an almost-four minute recap video posted by Google on Monday, December 11, it was announced that BTS and BLACKPINK are the most searched boy and girl groups, respectively. 

According to the report, the K-pop sensations were among the top searched acts in the search engine’s 25 year history. Both bands clinched a spot in the list alongside 2023 Time Person of the Year Taylor Swift, who was revealed to be the most searched singer-songwriter, and Beyonce for the most searched performance. 

Undoubtedly, this achievement marks K-pop’s growing global influence in the music scene. What makes these achievements more impressive is that both BTS and BLACKPINK weren’t that active in the recent months. 

As for BTS, the members have been preparing for their mandatory military service enlistments. Meanwhile, BLACKPINK’s contract was in limbo since August before they recently renewed with YG Entertainment for group activities. 

 

Looking back through milestones of BTS and BLACKPINK

Consisting of Jin, Suga, J-Hope, RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook, BTS debuted in 2013 under the then-small company BigHit Music. Through their heartfelt lyrics and stellar performances, the seven-member group rose to global success and achieved numerous historical records. Currently, they’re dominating both local and international music charts.

In 2019, BTS became the first Korean act to be nominated at the Billboard Music Awards. In 2020, the “Blood, Sweat and Tears” singers were named as TIME’s Entertainer of the Year. Notably, they were also the first Korean group to perform at the Grammys in the same year. 

Furthermore, BTS is also known for their unrivaled Daesang Sweep, where they garnered a total of 65 trophies throughout their career — the most number of grand prizes in the Korean entertainment industry. 

On the other hand, BLACKPINK, composed of Jisoo, Jennie, Rose and Lisa, debuted in 2016 under YG Entertainment. 

Despite having released only two full-length studio albums, the quartet took the world by storm. Since their debut, they have also become one of the most successful female acts in the K-pop industry.

Moreover, BLACKPINK became the first K-pop act to headline the Coachella music festival. Recently, they were also granted honorary membership in the Order of the British Empire.

Featured image: BTS poses for FESTA 2022. Credit: Facebook/BTS

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES

Look: Wooga Squad Sends off BTS’ V for His Military Enlistment

Wooga Squad poses with BTS V ahead of his enlistment. Credit: Instagram/Park Seo Joon

With Kim Taehyung also known as BTS’ V’s military enlistment, his friend group Wooga Squad made sure to send him off before his service.

In an Instagram story shared by actor Park Seo Joon on Monday, December 11, the Wooga Squad were seen hanging out for the last time as they bid farewell to the idol. 

As seen in the black-and-white photo, actors Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, Park Hyung Sik, and rapper Peakboy were admiring Taehyung in his new buzz haircut. The squad also wished for V’s safety as they wrote “Our youngest, take care!” in the caption. 

Known as one of the famous friend groups in the Korean Entertainment industry, Wooga Squad has shown their strong friendship through numerous appearances. It was in the 2016 series Hwarang, which marked V’s acting debut, that the group first met. 

Since then, the five members developed a close bond. In 2022, the Wooga Squad even participated in the reality show In the Soop: Friendcation, where they spent time together on a getaway.

BTS’ V pens heartfelt message for ARMYs

While V’s friends bid him farewell, the idol also made sure to say goodbye to ARMYs, BTS’ fanbase, before starting off his mandatory service.

 V gifted ARMYs a heartfelt message which he shared on Weverse, alongside a couple of solo and group photos of the band. The “Slow Dancing” singer began his post by saying, “I think I’ll miss you too much. Actually, I’m really sad to not see ARMYs for the time being”.

Then, V reassured the fans that he will have a healthy return after 18 months as he encouraged ARMYs to take care of their health too. Furthermore, he also mentioned that he prepared a lot of things for that period and asked ARMYs to look forward to it in the future.

“Let’s make another special memory like we always did. You have to wait until then, I’ll be right back,” the singer said as he sweetly ended his post.

With BTS leader RM enlisting alongside V on December 11, and Jimin and Jungkook following the next day, all BTS members are now serving in the military. As the seven members promised their fans, the sensational K-pop group will be back and complete in 2025. 

Featured image: Wooga Squad poses with BTS V ahead of his enlistment. Credit: Instagram/Park Seo Joon

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

BTS' RM poses for his solo album 'Indigo.' Credit: Facebook/BTS

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

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V Let Park Seo Joon Stay in His House For Several Months

BTS’s V and actor Park Seo Joon’s deep friendship recently came to light in a heartwarming revelation. As it turns out, Kim Taehyung once invited the star of “The Marvels” to stay in his house for several weeks!

Park Seo Joon Discusses Close Bond with BTS’ V

The bond between the two close friends was showcased in a surprise advanced birthday celebration for V, who is set to embark on his military enlistment. The celebration, organized by TV producer Na Yeon Seok (Na PD) and Park Seo Joon, featured heartfelt moments and shared anecdotes about their friendship.

During the celebration, Park Seo Joon revealed a surprising detail about their closeness. He disclosed that when he needed a place to stay during home remodeling that took around four months, he ended up living in V’s house for several weeks.

Initially planning the remodeling while he was away for an overseas project, Park Seo Joon returned to South Korea earlier than expected, finding himself without accommodation. Being practically neighbors, he approached V and asked if he could stay at his house for a while. V, who is known for his warm personality, readily agreed, jokingly mentioning that the extra room was meant for Park Seo Joon.

The actor humorously acknowledged that staying at V’s place helped him “save a bit of money,” highlighting the ease and comfort in their friendship. The revelation of such an intimate and supportive connection between the two stars resonated with fans, showcasing the depth of their bond beyond professional collaborations.

The friendship between V, Park Seo Joon, and another co-star from the 2016 K-Drama “Hwarang,” Park Hyung Sik, remains strong. The camaraderie developed during the filming of “Hwarang” has endured, leading to genuine connections and shared celebrations. As V prepares for his military enlistment, the heartwarming stories of friendship provide fans with a glimpse into the strong and lasting relationships that have developed within the entertainment industry.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Jungkook Reveals Cha Eun Woo’s Thoughtful Parting Gift

BTS’s Jungkook has received a special parting gift from his close friend ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo, as he prepares for his upcoming military enlistment. The two idols, known for their close friendship, have often been seen supporting each other over the years.

Jungkook Reveals Sweet and Useful Parting Gift from Cha Eun Woo

During a surprise live broadcast on Weverse, Jungkook spent over an hour engaging with fans and discussing various topics, including his imminent military service. While talking about items he still needed to purchase before enlistment, Jungkook shared that Cha Eun Woo had given him a thoughtful parting gift. According to the BTS maknae, the ASTRO member gave him a watch that is commonly used by soldiers. The present was also accompanied by a letter, adding a personal touch to the gesture.

Although Jungkook didn’t disclose the brand name, it was suggested that the watch might be a G-Shock, a type of rugged watch produced by the Japanese brand Casio. G-Shock watches are known for their durability and ability to withstand mechanical stress, shock, and vibration, making them suitable for military use.

Fans have expressed their admiration for the warm friendship between Jungkook and Cha Eun Woo, highlighting the genuine and supportive bond they share. The personalized gift from Eun Woo demonstrates the depth of their connection and has resonated positively with fans, who appreciate the sincerity and thoughtfulness behind the gesture.

As Jungkook prepares for his military service, the supportive gestures from friends like Cha Eun Woo serve as a touching reminder of the strong camaraderie within the K-pop industry. Fans are eager to see how their favorite idols continue to support and uplift each other throughout various milestones in their careers and personal lives.

Jungkook recently surprised fans by dropping an emotional visualizer for his song “Hate You”. The video was also released ahead of his upcoming mandatory military enlistment.

Categories
BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V Addresses ‘Special Duty Team’ Military Enlistment

BTS member V, also known as Kim Taehyung, recently addressed speculations about him joining the “Special Duty Team” during his mandatory military service.

V Confirms Decision to Join ‘Special Duty Team’ for Mandatory Military Enlistment

BIGHIT MUSIC had previously informed fans, known as ARMYs, about the enlistment of the remaining four BTS members—RM, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—in November. However, specific details about the enlistment process were not provided, except for the information that Jimin and Jungkook would enlist through a companion system, allowing them to be together during training.

Recent reports from Korean media outlets suggested that V might join the Special Duty Team, an anti-terrorism unit directly supervised by the Blue House. This news led to a mix of skepticism and concern among ARMYs, as this unit is known for its strict training program and involvement in high-risk operations.

On December 5, during a live broadcast on Weverse, V confirmed the news about joining the Special Duty Team. He described it as a personal challenge and directly addressed the concerns of fans, assuring them that he would take care of himself during the enlistment period.

“There were articles coming out about the unit I will be enlisting. ARMYs were worried, but honestly, I just wanted to challenge myself by going there and because I have goals. So please do not worry too much. I am challenging myself, but I also know how to deflect when needed.”

V’s acknowledgment of the situation and his determination to face the challenge positively resonated with ARMYs, who expressed pride in his attitude. Fans continue to support V and wish for his health and safety during his mandatory military service.

The confirmation from V provides a glimpse into the members’ mindset as they prepare for this significant phase of their careers. The support from ARMYs remains unwavering as they stand by each BTS member during their individual journeys.

Exit mobile version