Category: K-POP ARTISTS

After a stellar performance at the 2023 KCON LA, the Boys Planet group, ZEROBASEONE, has stirred excitement among fans by hinting at their first comeback this November. The group, which debuted just a few months ago, is already making waves in the music industry.

ZEROBASEONE unveiled a spoiler teaser film during the KCON LA festival, giving fans a glimpse of their upcoming album. This teaser has amplified the anticipation, leaving fans eager to discover the new music and concept the group will introduce.

𝗭𝗘𝗥𝗢𝗕𝗔𝗦𝗘𝗢𝗡𝗘 (제로베이스원) Spoiler Film: 2nd EP

The teaser film, shared on the official social media channels of the Boys Planet group, showcases a unique slot machine set against the backdrop of the Arctic. The machine displays an intriguing error after hinting at the comeback’s theme. Different symbols like snowflakes, the number zero, and water droplets converge. They form the phrase “Our Winter,” suggesting a possible theme or title for the new album.

The group’s debut in July was marked by the release of their mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE. In less than six months after it dropped and broke records, ZEROBASEONE is ready to release another captivating album, demonstrating their commitment to continuous evolution.

ZEROBASEONE in KCON LA

At the 2023 KCON LA, ZEROBASEONE showcased their exceptional talent. They performed  some songs from their debut EP, including the title track “In Bloom” and the B-side “New Kidz On The Block.” They also did “Here I Am,” the signal song of the Mnet survival show that gave them their big break.

ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) ‘s 1min. ⏱💚 | KCON LA 2023

Members Kim Jiwoong, Zhang Hao, Sung Hanbin, Seok Matthew, Kim Taerae, Ricky, Kim Gyuvin, Park Gunwook and Han Yujin made special appearances on the festival’s second day, engaging with fans and further solidifying their rising status in the music world.

With their upcoming album set for a November release, ZEROBASEONE is poised to continue their meteoric rise in the music industry. Fans worldwide eagerly await the group’s next move, and their recent activities suggest they won’t disappoint. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The boys killed it at KCON LA. Source: Twitter/@ZB1_official.

South Korea’s music industry has seen many stars rise and fall. But few have captured hearts like Park Gunwook. This talented singer, rapper, and dancer signed to Jellyfish Entertainment has been on a roller-coaster journey to stardom.

제로베이스원 박건욱 ‘In Bloom’ (ZEROBASEONE PARK GUNWOOK FaceCam) @SBS Inkigayo

In August 2021, Gunwook first stepped into the limelight as a contestant on the MBC survival show Wild Idol. His rap skills were undeniable, earning him a spot in the finale. Unfortunately, despite his talent, he missed out on the chance to debut in TAN. But as they say, when one door closes, another opens.

Fast forward to December 29, 2022. Gunwook returned to the survival show circuit, this time on Mnet’s Boys Planet. Representing Jellyfish Entertainment again, he showed off his determination  and skills. By the show’s end, he placed fifth and secured a spot in the debut lineup. As part of the fifth-generation group ZEROBASEONE, Gunwook has been on a winning streak. He and his members clinched numerous awards, including the coveted K Global Super Rookie Award in 2023.

What truly sets Park Gunwook apart

But what truly sets Gunwook apart? A former Wild Idol staffer shared a heartwarming account of their brief interaction with him. The staffer reminisced, “When I first saw Gunwook, it was such a pleasant memory. Most trainees were shy, so they barely greeted us. But as soon as he entered, he shouted, ‘I’m Park Gunwook from Jellyfish! Thank you for this opportunity!'”

The staffer continued, “Even though Gunwook had to wait a while because the previous segment was delayed, he was concerned about the delay for those scheduled to shoot their teasers after him. He had prepared outfits for his dance and individual talent, but he said he could dance in his school uniform. It turned out he wore his outfit under his school uniform because he thought he might not have time to change due to the delay.”

Gunwook‘s dedication was evident throughout the shoot. “He jumped rope multiple times,” recalled the staffer. “Even though he must have been exhausted, he kept doing it when the staff told him to rest. He also prepared multiple dances, songs, and raps on his own.”

His pleasant nature

But it wasn’t just his work ethic that stood out. His gratitude and thoughtfulness were impressive too “The lighting director at the time adjusted the background color to match the trainee’s image or outfit. When asked if pink was OK, he said, ‘I love it! I love pink.’ After finishing, he thanked all the staff. He made a point of going over to the lighting director to thank him for his consideration.”

Wild Idol No. 16 Dance_Stray Kids ‘God’s Menu’, MBC 202109 broadcast

The staffer concluded with a touching memory. “When he left, he drank all the remaining water in one go and even separated the plastic wrapping for recycling. He was such a considerate young man. I remember that. Even though five to sixty trainees who didn’t make it on the broadcast also shot individual teasers, Gunwook was sincerely my top pick. I still support him so much!”

Gunwook‘s actions during that shoot said a lot about his character. In the entertainment industry, talent is essential, but character is what truly endears an artist to everyone around them. Gunwook is proof that genuine dedication and kindness can leave an indelible mark. As he continues to do well in ZEROBASEONE, colleagues and fans alike can attest to the pleasant nature of this rising star. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: He’s not just charming, he’s considerate too. Source: Twitter/@beeforyou0110.

In a recent turn of events, ZEROBASEONE‘s Kim Gyuvin found himself at the center of an online controversy. Known for his playful personality and aegyo, Gyuvin‘s youthful speech habits, typical of South Korean teens, unexpectedly drew criticism. The group’s fans, aka ZEROSE, holding the idol to higher standards, took issue with certain phrases he used. They suspected their origins to be from misogynistic forums and websites.

The young artist faced criticism for using specific words and phrases many identified as originating from the “Ilbe” forum. For the uninitiated, “Ilbe,” aka the “Daily Best Archives,” is a predominantly conservative online platform frequented mainly by conservative-identifying male users. 

https://www.tiktok.com/@kimtaeraefan/video/7268789298248437035?is_from_webapp=1&sender_device=pc&web_id=6908322787502065153

During interactions with fans on a community platform, netizens quickly pointed out several terms Gyuvin used. These included “ㅗㅜㅑ (Oh-woo-yah),” allegedly used by “Ilbe” users when reacting to women’s bodies or explicit content. He also mentioned “없당께 (eop-dang-kkae),” a phrase from the Jeolla dialect “Ilbe” users might use to mock speakers of this dialect. 

Additionally, he used “못참제 (mot-cham-jae),” another dialect-style term similar to “못참지.” Lastly, “아몰랑 (ah-mol-llang)” is a cutesy way of saying “I don’t know,” which some believe ‘Ilbe’ users use to mock emotional females. Some ZEROSE defended Gyuvin, arguing that those terms were common slang, while others felt they were inappropriate, especially coming from a public figure.

Kim Gyuvin apologizes

As the news spread, concerns arose about whether Gyuvin might be an ‘Ilbe’ user. Addressing the issue head-on, Gyuvin took to social media to clarify his stance. He expressed that he was unaware of the deeper meanings behind the words he used.

In his heartfelt message, Gyuvin said, “Hello, this is ZEROBASEONE’s Kim Gyuvin. Recently, while communicating with fans on a new platform, I realized I used words without understanding their origins or implications. I regret my actions and am taking time to reflect on my mistakes. I sincerely apologize to those who felt uneasy due to my oversight. I pledge to educate myself to prevent such incidents in the future. I extend my apologies to my fans and everyone affected by this.”

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of understanding the context and implications of the words we use, especially in the age of the internet where words can easily be misconstrued. It’s commendable that Gyuvin acknowledged his mistake and committed to learning from it, setting an example for many in the limelight. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Gyuvin apologized to everyone for his words. Source: Twitter/@KimGyuvinPHL.

tripleS, a renowned name in the K-pop scene, just made a major announcement. Following the debut of their sub-unit LOVElution, the group has confirmed the debut of their next sub-unit, EVOLution, set for October 4. The latter’s lineup is composed of familiar and fresh faces. It includes Kamimoto Kotone, Kim Chaeyeon, Kim Nakyoung, Kim Soomin, Kim Yooyeon, Koma Mayu, Kwak Yeonji, and Lee Jiwoo.

Kim Yooyeon, known for her versatile skills, was previously part of the now-dissolved sub-unit Acid Angel from Asia. Her participation in the MBC girl group survival show, My Teenage Girl, marked a pivotal point in her career, leading to her official induction into tripleS in July 2022.

Mayu, introduced as the sixteenth member in July 2023, garnered significant attention. Her teaser alone ignited a wave of fan speculation. Kim Nakyoung, transitioning from acting to music, had been a trainee at P NATION before joining tripleS.

More survival show alums

Kotone‘s journey includes participating in Mnet’s survival show Girls Planet 999. Although she didn’t win a place in Kep1er, she became the eleventh member of tripleS in January 2023. Meanwhile, Kim Chaeyeon has been in the limelight since her days as a child actress. Her many talents found a new avenue when she joined the sub-unit +(KR)ystal Eyes, and later, EVOLution.

Lee Jiwoo carved her path to tripleS through her memorable participation in My Teenage Girl. Her charm and talent led her to the group in June 2022, and she subsequently became an integral part of their sub-units +(KR)ystal Eyes and EVOLution. Kim Soomin‘s identity was shrouded in mystery when she was unveiled as the sixth member of tripleS in August 2022, which intrigued fans. Soomin later showcased her talents in the sub-units +(KR)ystal Eyes and EVOLution.

EVOLution is set for a memorable debut

Finally, Kwak Yeonji, joining as the twelfth member in January 2023, added a fresh energy to the group. With the diversity and talent present in EVOLution, this tripleS sub-unit promises to bring a fresh wave of music and performances to the K-pop scene. Their litmus test? Performing on tripleS’ first world tour. What’s more, a snippet of EVOLution’s debut song has already been teased, setting the stage for what’s to come.

tripleS(트리플에스) EVOLution -DEMO + SONG F +Number 8 Mix

As the debut date nears, fans are eager for more details, snippets, and teasers. As fans across the globe count the days leading up to October 4, one thing is clear: EVOLution is set for a memorable debut. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Each girl brings something special to the table. Source: Twitter/@tripleSbraSil.

In the world of K-pop, rumors often spread like wildfire. Recently, Jane, a former member of MLD Entertainment’s defunct girl group MOMOLAND, found herself at the center of such rumors. Many are speculating that she used to date Joshua from the boy group SEVENTEEN. However, Jane has now stepped forward to clear the air.

Earlier this month, someone posted on an online forum hinting at Joshua‘s alleged relationship with a girl group member from years past. While the post didn’t name Jane outright, OP dropped enough hints that led many to believe she was the girl in question. As these whispers grew louder, Jane felt compelled to address them directly.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXKuAOTfl6o

MOMOLAND’s Jane Firmly Denies Allegations Of Her Past Relationship With SEVENTEEN’s Joshua

Taking to her fan communication platform, Jane shared her feelings on the situation. She began by expressing her discomfort and uncertainty about how to approach the topic. However, for the sake of her fans, she decided to speak out.

In a heartfelt post, Jane emphasized that during her time in the entertainment industry, she had never personally met Joshua. Moreover, even her close friends hadn’t interacted with the singer in any meaningful way. She expressed her bewilderment at these rumors, stating she genuinely had no idea why they started.

Jane hopes to end the rumors

Jane also referenced a popular Korean meme featuring Jo Se Ho in her post. The meme goes: “How can I go if I don’t know them?” This meme shows Jo Se Ho looking puzzled after being asked about attending a wedding of someone he doesn’t know, captures Jane‘s sentiments to a tee.

She further revealed that these rumors weren’t new. In fact, they had been circulating for quite some time. In the past, her former agency received numerous calls from fans asking about the real score between her and Joshua. This led to a serious misunderstanding between her and her agency. Jane confessed that she dismissed the rumors, thinking they would fade away. Unfortunately, her silence seemed to solidify the rumors in the eyes of many.

She decided to address the matter now to prevent any further misunderstandings. She emphasized that she’s speaking out with a heavy heart, hoping to put an end to the baseless speculations.

Netizens weigh in

Following the emergence of these rumors, the internet was abuzz with discussions and speculations. Korean online communities, in particular, were rife with chatter as many tried to piece together the puzzle of Jane and Joshua’s alleged relationship. However, after her heartfelt clarification on her fan community platform, many expressed disbelief and frustration on Jane’s behalf. They criticized people who spread such information without substantial evidence.

In addition, there were those who expressed their dismay at the ease with which rumors spread, commenting, “Why are they spreading rumors like that lol,” and “Wow, she must feel so unjust.” The overarching sentiment was clear: many believed that baseless rumors were not only harmful but also unfair to the individuals involved.

While rumors and speculations are an inevitable part of the entertainment industry, it’s essential to approach them with caution. Jane‘s candid response serves as a reminder that the truth often lies far from what’s being whispered in the corridors of the internet. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jane said she and Joshua have never even met. Source: Facebook/Momoland Jane – 제인 and Twitter/@pledis_17jp.