Category: K-POP ARTISTS

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ATEEZ’s Mingi Surprises ATINY With Emotionally Charged, Self-Written Song

Mingi

Song Mingi, a cherished member of the globally renowned K-pop group ATEEZ, has graced fans with a touching musical gift. At midnight KST on August 10, he unveiled a song that had been shrouded in mystery. This untitled masterpiece was first introduced to ATINY during a YouTube live broadcast he did in June.

[Special Clip] ATEEZ(에이티즈) 민기 ‘무제’

ATEEZ’s dedicated fanbase welcomed the song’s official release with overwhelming admiration and joy. Mingi’s prowess as a songwriter shone through in it. Not only did he co-compose the music, but he also took the lead in writing the lyrics. He poured his heart and soul into every line.

Mingi, the music man

Mingi has been hands-on in ATEEZ’s discography since their career began. He showcased his writing ability on their first mini album, Treasure EP. 1: All to Zero. Mingi co-wrote five of its six tracks, including its two singles, “Pirate King” and “Treasure.” 

Since then, Mingi has contributed to all of the group’s albums. He excels in crafting poignant lyrics that tackle diverse themes, including dreams, friendship, and youth. His unique ability to articulate feelings that are hard to capture solidified his reputation as an emerging powerhouse lyricist of the fourth generation.

[ENG/CC] ATEEZ LIVE – Mingi’s Unreleased Song

In a separate interview, he opened up about how he catalogs his ideas. “I write down a lot of them as memos on my phone, and I always go back to them to see if they match what we’re going through as a group. That’s how I write my lyrics,” he explains. “Sometimes I’ll think of it as writing a script to really get into that persona.”

In addition to his songwriting, Mingi is also a burgeoning producer. He once gave fans a quick peek at his creative process and the studio where he works.

ATEEZ(에이티즈) log_1DAY VLOG #MINGI_1

More than a piece of music

In K-pop, where artists often collaborate with various songwriters and producers, Mingi‘s choice to take a hands-on approach with this song showcases his dedication and passion for music. As the song continues to gain traction, it serves as a reminder of the bond between ATEEZ and their fans. 

Mingi‘s surprise release is more than a piece of music. It’s a heartfelt message from an artist to his fans, expressing gratitude, love, and the myriad emotions that come with being a worldwide star. With its emotional depth and beautiful composition, the song is bound to leave a lasting impression on all who listen. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Mingi has written songs for ATEEZ since debut. Source: Twitter/@ATEEZofficial.

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Theblacklabel Apologizes for Plagiarism Issue on Jeon Somi’s ‘Fast Forward’ MV

Jeon Somi in the teasers for her 'Game Plan' album. Credit: Twitter/Jeon Somi

THEBLACKLABEL will edit some scenes involving an animated character in Jeon Somi’s “Fast Forward” music video after viewers accused it of plagiarism. 

“Fast Forward,” which is the title track of Somi’s new EP Game Plan, was released on Monday, August 7. 

 

Following its release, several viewers pointed out that the animated character in Somi’s music video resembles an artwork of the famous Japanese cartoonist Rumiko Takahashi. 

In the ”Fast Forward” music video, the manga-styled character appeared to be a representation of the idol. 

However, fans were quick to raise the similarities between Somi’s animated character and the artwork on Takahashi’s manga series Urusei Yatsura. 

 

Viewers alleged that the two had the same style and color scheme. According to online users, only the direction the character is facing and the hairstyle are the differences.

Hence, viewers accused the company of ripping off the known character. It also sparked debate on whether the agency has permission to use the design commercially. 

THEBLACKLABEL reacts

Soon afterwards the allegations went viral, THEBLACKLABEL issued an apology on Wednesday, August 9. 

The agency said that they have decided to “delete and modify the scene” after they  “discovered that the animated character in the video had similar appearances to a different character’s artwork.” 

 

Additionally, THEBLACKLABEL shared that they will replace said scenes as soon as possible. “We sincerely apologize for being unable to take a closer look and for causing concern,” they said. 

The label also assured fans that they will be “more careful in the future” to prevent instances like this from happening again. 

Game Plan is Jeon Somi’s first comeback in two years, following her studio album XOXO in October 2021. 

Jeon Somi entered the K-pop industry through the 2015 survival program Sixteen. She also participated in the first season of Produce 101 in 2016, wherein she became a member of the project girl group IOI. 

After IOI disbanded, Jeon Somi chose to venture in her solo career. 

Featured image: Jeon Somi in the teasers for her ‘Game Plan’ album. Credit: Twitter/Jeon Somi

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Here Are the K-Pop Groups Performing at World Scout Jamboree Concert

IVE poses during the filming of 'I AM' music video. Credit: Facebook/IVE

More than 15 artists are expected to perform at the 2023 World Scout Jamboree’s K-pop Super Live Concert! 

The much-awaited K-pop finale concert was initially scheduled for August 6 at an outdoor campsite in Saemangeum, North Jeolla Province. However, it was postponed due to the heat wave warning, extreme weather conditions, and safety issues. 

Now, the Friday, August 11 concert will be held at the Seoul World Cup Stadium with a new lineup for the show. 

Prior to the Seoul World Cup Stadium, the organizers first thought of conducting the rescheduled concert at the Jeonju World Cup Stadium. But the venue was moved again after all the participants of the Jamboree had to leave the Saemangeum campsite due to the threats of Typhoon Khanun. 

According to the Jamboree’s organizing committee and the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism, the new MCs for the event will be Gong Myung, ITZY’s Yuna, and NewJean’s Hyein. 

Meanwhile, K-pop acts MAMAMOO, NCT DREAM, ITZY, IVE, NewJeans, and The Boyz are confirmed to be part of the new lineup. 

 

Additionally, ZEROBASEONE, MONSTA X’s Shownu x Hyungwon, KARD, and fromis_9 will also be performing. Other groups include P1Harmony, The New Six (TNX), Xikers, ATBO, Libelante, and dance crew HolyBang. 

Lastly, soloists Kwon Eun Bi, Jo Yu Ri, and Kang Daniel will also be taking the stage. 

“These top artists will vibrantly showcase the essence and charm of K-culture at a concert that will bring together 40,000 young scouts from 150 countries around the world,” Park Bo Gyoon, Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism said in a press release. 

Featured image: IVE poses during the filming of ‘I AM’ music video. Credit: Facebook/IVE

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SM Entertainment Denies Knowing of Exo Baekhyun’s Plans for Own Agency

EXO's Baekhyun in the teaser images for 'Let Me In.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Following EXO’s Baekhyun’s recent revelations, SM Entertainment released a statement of their own to address the idol’s claims. 

On Tuesday, August 8, Baekhyun responded to a series of rumors surrounding his career through a live broadcast on Instagram.

What Baekhyun said

In the livestream, the vocalist opened up about his recent legal dispute with SM Entertainment. He said that he’ve “always wanted to inquire about accounting.” And that there were incidents during Lee Soo Man’s absence that “piqued [his] curiosity.” 

Aside from Baekhyun, EXO members Chen and Xiumin moved to terminate their exclusive contracts with SM Entertainment in June. The EXO-CBX sub-unit cited unclear handling of earnings and slave contracts as their motivation. 

However, both parties have reached a settlement after an almost three-week legal battle. 

Additionally, Baekhyun pointed out that they reached an “amicable compromise.” He also emphasized that he now has a “good relationship” with SM Entertainment.  

 

Moreover, Baekhyun also revealed that he started the company One Signature with his friend Kasper. The idol explained that it aims to produce good choreographers and dancers. 

The singer also mentioned that SM Entertainment is aware of his plans and encouraging his new venture. 

SM Entertainment reacts

Yet, the agency claimed that they’ve never heard anything about Baekhyun’s plans. And that they only found out about it through the reports. 

“Although we are flustered by the [sudden news], we trust that [Baekhyun] will keep the promises he made during our mutual agreement,” the agency said in a press release. 

 

Furthermore, SM Entertainment also clarified that the existing contracts of Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin have not expired. In fact, the agency said that Baekhyun’s existing agency with them runs until January 2024. 

The label also asserted that EXO will continue their group activities and Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin can also pursue solo activities. 

 EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST in July. It served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years. It has a total of nine songs, with “Cream Soda” as its title track. 

Currently, EXO is airing the fourth season of their hit variety show Travel the World on a Ladder.

Featured image: EXO’s Baekhyun in the teaser images for ‘Let Me In.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Blackpink’s Lisa to Be Inducted Into Asian Hall of Fame

BLACKPINK shares a photo of Lisa for her birthday. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

Lisa of K-pop girl group BLACKPINK continues to prove she’s a trailblazer in the entertainment industry! 

The 2023 Asian Hall of Fame has announced that Lisa, whose real name is Lalisa Manoban, is one of its inductees . 

Established in 2004, the Asian Hall of Fame aims to advance “Asian and Indigenous leadership, achievements, and service to the United States and around the world.” 

 

Aside from Lisa, 15 other people are also being inducted to the legacy platform. 

This year’s nominees also include Far*East Movement, Freddie Mercury, Johnny Cash, and Ryuichi Sakamoto, among others. 

 

According to its website, one of the criteria for an individual to be inducted is that they should have “transformed multicultural, multiracial, and multigenerational ambassadorship for generations to come.” 

Moreover, the Thai-born rapper-dancer is the first K-pop idol to be inducted into the Asian Hall of Fame. She is being honored as a “cultural icon.” 

The induction ceremony will be on October 21, 2023 in Los Angeles. 

Lisa’s iconic achievements

Indeed, Lisa’s induction comes as no surprise as the idol has been breaking records left and right. 

In May 2023, the BLACKPINK member became the K-pop soloist with the most Guinness World Records in history. 

Currently, Lisa has seven records. She was able to surpass PSY’s five records.  Some of Lisa’s records include: 

  • most followers on Instagram for a K-pop artist
  • fastest solo K-pop female artist to reach one billion streams on Spotify 
  • first solo K-pop winner at the MTV Video Music Awards 

Lisa made her debut as a member of BLACKPINK in August 2016. She made her solo debut in September 2021 with the release of her single album Lalisa. 

Additionally, BLACKPINK also holds several Guinness World Records, including being the most viewed channel on YouTube. 

Furthermore, the group’s seven-year contract with YG Entertainment is set to expire by August 2023. However, Lisa is rumored to no longer renew with the agency. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK shares a photo of Lisa for her birthday. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK

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Look: TXT Is Dior’s Newest Global Ambassadors

TXT poses with their customized Dior fits for Lollapalooza festival. Credit: Twitter/DIOR

Another good news for MOAs: fashion luxury brand Dior tapped K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT)  to be their newest global ambassador! 

The brand announced the news on Thursday, August 10. It revealed that Dior’s artistic director Kim Jones designed the group’s customized outfits for the Lollapalooza music festival. 

 

Over the weekend of August 5, TXT history as the first K-pop group to headline the major US festival. Aside from their 20-song performance, MOAs were also in awe of the members’ styling for the show. 

In an exclusive by Women’s Wear Daily, Jones shared that TXT’s outfits drew inspiration from his utilitarian and sci-fi-inspired pre-fall 2023 collection. 

“Tomorrow X Together are the perfect ambassadors for Dior,” he was quoted as saying. “They have a great attitude and style and they look great in their custom stage outfits.” 

Meanwhile, Leader Soobin said that it’s an “honor” for the group to wear Dior in Lollapalooza, which he described as “one of the most significant performances of [their] career.” 

Additionally, all TXT members also expressed their own eagerness and excitement in more collaboration with the brand. 

“I’m thrilled to become an ambassador of Dior and represent a brand that I am personally fond of,” Yeonjun said. 

Taehyun added: “Collaborating with a major fashion house like Dior for a music festival as big as Lollapalooza was truly amazing.

K-pop stars making waves in fashion industry 

With this announcement, TXT has officially become the first K-pop group that Dior tapped to be their global ambassador. 

They joined a number of other K-pop stars signed to the fashion house. BTS’ Jimin, BLACKPINK’s Jisoo, EXO’s Sehun, ASTRO’s Cha Eun Woo, and NewJeans’ Haerin are also Dior ambassadors.

Aside from these K-pop acts, there’s also several international stars under Dior. Robert Pattinson, Anya Taylor-Joy, Caleb McLaughlin, and Elizabeth Debicki are among the faces of the brand. 

Recently, numerous K-pop idols have been tapped as global ambassadors for luxurious fashion brands. We have BTS’ V for Cartier, SEVENTEEN’s Vernon for Kenzo, and TWICE’s Dahyun for Michael Kors. Additionally, STRAY KIDS’ Hyunjin signed with Versace and (G)I-DLE’s Miyeon for Jimmy Choo. 

Meanwhile,  TXT is currently embarking on their ACT: SWEET MIRAGE world tour. They also recently collaborated with American band Jonas Brothers for the track “Do It Like That” and released their Disney+ documentary Our Lost Summer. 

Composed of Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Huening Kai, TXT is known for songs “Good Boy Gone Bad,” “Crown,” “Blue Hour,” and “Anti-Romantic.” 

Featured image: TXT poses with their customized Dior fits for Lollapalooza festival. Credit: Twitter/DIOR

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Ciipher: Four Members Officially Quit the Group as Netizens Blame Rain Company

In a recent and unexpected development, four members of the renowned K-pop group Ciipher have decided to leave the band. On August 9, Ciipher‘s label, Rain Company, announced that Dohwan, Tag, Tan, and Won ended their contracts. This decision, described as mutual, was reached after a series of discussions.

As for the remaining members, Hwi, Hyunbin, and Keita, they have chosen to stay with the company and continue their work in showbiz. They plan to regroup and continue promoting as a trio someday. They’re also set to meet fans through various activities. For instance, Keita is getting ready for his first solo fan meeting in Japan on August 19.

While the official statement from Rain Company underscored the mutual respect and understanding underpinning this decision, fans voiced their concerns and frustrations. Many are directing their ire at the company. Accusations of mismanagement and mistreatment are being leveled at its founder, the seasoned idol Rain.

One of the problems is the limited interaction between Ciipher and the public. There are noticeable gaps between posts on the group’s social media platforms, such as Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Ciipher also doesn’t have accounts on Dear U Bubble and Weverse, where they can engage with fans more intimately and regularly. 

Rain‘s track record with managing idol groups has also come under scrutiny. Netizens have accused him of neglecting groups like MADTOWN and MBLAQ. They’re concerned that Ciipher is receiving the same poor treatment they did.

What’s next for the Ciipher members

After dropping a mini-album called The Code in 2022, Hyunbin and Keita went on the survival show circuit. Hyunbin competed on MBC’s Fantasy Boys, while Keita joined Mnet’s Boys Planet. He was all set to do it with Tag, but the latter dropped out of the show before filming began. 

Soon after word of their departure broke out, Dohwan, Tag, and Won reached out to fans on social media.

Tan went live on Instagram to air his sentiments.

 

Last week, Jellyfish Entertainment confirmed that Keita will debut in EVNNE, a seven-member boy group with six other Boys Planet alums. As of this writing, it’s unknown what Dohwan, Tag, Tan, and Won plan to do next.

This exodus of Ciipher members from Rain Company is a pivotal moment in the K-pop scene. As their fans await more news, there remains a collective hope that things will turn out well for the boys. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Here are the boys in happier times. May they all find success post-Ciipher. Source: Twitter/@RAIN_Ciipher.

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Meet the Fourth-Generation Idol Competing for the Miss Universe Korea Crown

In a pleasantly surprising twist, the K-pop scene and the pageant world have come together. It’s all because of one Park Seyeon—better known by her stage name, Seyeon. Not only is she a fourth-gen idol, but she’s also a contender for the Miss Universe Korea 2023 title.

Seyeon‘s rise to fame began as the youngest member, or maknae, of the K-pop group PURPLEBECK. Signed to Majesty Entertainment, this group burst onto the scene in 2019 with their single album Crystal Ball. Later that year, they made a comeback with “Dream Line.”

PURPLEBECK, Crystal Ball, SeYeon Focus [THE SHOW 190709]

PurpleBeck, Dream Line [THE SHOW 191022]

Transitioning from her school days at Hanlim Multi Arts School to the dynamic stages of K-pop was no small feat. After finishing high school in February 2020, Seyeon participated in her group’s first mini-album. It was titled Starry Night and was bannered by the title track “VALENTi.” 

MVㅣPurpleBeck (퍼플백) – VALENTiㅣStarry Night

With every new release from PURPLEBECK, Seyeon consistently showcased her prowess as a singer and rapper.

However, the surprises didn’t stop there. Seyeon‘s venture into pageantry piqued the interest and excitement of many. She’s not content with simply being an idol; she’s on a mission to display the many facets of her personality and talent.

Seyeon hopes to make an impact

Known for her endearing qualities, such as her passion for cooking and her fondness for the colors black, purple, and white, Seyeon embodies beauty with depth. Her love for summer, arguably the most lively season, mirrors her vibrant and bubbly nature, making her a fitting representative for the Miss Universe Korea title.

The pageant she’s competing in is called Miss Queen Korea, and it’s responsible for selecting South Korea’s representatives for the Miss Universe and Miss World pageants. Should Seyeon win it all this year, she’ll head to San Salvador, El Salvador in November for the chance to succeed R’Bonney Gabriel of the U.S. as the new Miss Universe. 

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

과거는 아이돌, 현재는 미스 유니버스 코리아를 꿈꾸는 저의 행보를 기대해 주세요🙏

As of August 6, 39 contestants have been confirmed, including the Netherlands’ Rikkie Kollé. Kollé is the second transwoman to compete for the Miss Universe crown, following Spain’s Angela Ponce in 2018. Like South Korea, the other participating countries are still selecting their representatives. Seyeon is currently in seventh place. But her journey in the competition is far from over. She’s set her sights on the finals and she’s doing her best to make a significant impact. 

Fans and pageant enthusiasts alike can show their support by voting for Seyeon on the OHMYSTAR app. As she continues to break barriers, Seyeon exemplifies the evolving landscape of K-pop, where idols aren’t just limited to making music. Some are branching out, challenging norms, and setting new benchmarks. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Seyeon’s profile is filled with striking photos like this one. Source: OHMYSTAR.

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Kwon Eunbi Finally Earns a Solo Music Show Win, Thanks to “The Flash”

In a triumphant moment for Kwon Eunbi, her new single “The Flash” clinched the top spot on SBS M’s The Show on August 8. Competing against top tracks from various artists, including xikers‘ “DO or DIE” and BBGIRLS‘ “ONE MORE TIME,” Eunbi‘s “The Flash” emerged victorious, marking her first-ever solo music show win. With 9,260 points, the victory wasn’t just a testament to the song’s popularity. It also reflected Eunbi‘s unwavering dedication and connection with her fans.

KWON EUN BI, The Flash (권은비, The Flash) [THE SHOW 230808]

Eunbi has been in the K-pop scene for a while. She started her journey with the group Ye-A in 2014 and later made waves with IZ*ONE in 2018. Her solo endeavors have spotlighted her determination and talent. After IZ*ONE‘s disbandment, she went solo and released three mini-albums. Her most recent one, Lethality, garnered significant attention. But “The Flash” set the charts alight, gaining traction among fans and critics alike.

KWON EUN BI (권은비), THE SHOW CHOICE! [THE SHOW 230808]

The episode of The Show was a celebration of K-pop, with many other performers taking the stage. Also on the bill that day were 8TURN, BXB, HORI7ON, ILY:1, LIMELIGHT, NINE.i, SATURDAY, SEVENUS (formerly known as MASC), TAN, The Wind, and YOUNITE. Each performance added to the electric atmosphere of the show. Yet, the highlight remained Eunbi’s win, a moment filled with emotion, pride, and joy.

KWON EUN BI (권은비), THE SHOW CHOICE! (Non-edited ver.) [THE SHOW 230808]

Eunbi continues to shine

A day before her big win, Eunbi collaborated with Mnet’s digital studio M2. Together, they treated her fans to a cool relay dance video for “The Flash.” This special treat showcased her impeccable dancing and vocal prowess., further solidifying her position as a versatile artist.

[릴레이댄스] 권은비(KWON EUNBI) – The Flash (4K)

Eunbi‘s first win with “The Flash” is a significant milestone, reflecting her hard work, talent, and the support of her fans. As Eunbi continues to shine in the music scene, her fans eagerly await her next steps. Congratulations, Kwon Eunbi! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Eunbi’s “The Flash” earned over 9,000 points to beat new material from BB GIRLS and xikers. Source: YouTube/@thekpop.

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Jellyfish Entertainment Changes New Boy Group’s Name to EVNNE

On August 9, Jellyfish Entertainment made headlines by unveiling a significant change to their new boy group. Initially, the septet, consisting of Ji Yoon Seo, Keita, Lee Jung Hyun, Moon Jung Hyun, Park Han Bin, Park Ji Hoo, and Yoo Seung Eon, was set to debut under the name BLIT. However, after careful consideration and receiving feedback, the company decided on a name change to avoid any potential negative misunderstandings.

The decision came after the realization that the name BLIT might carry negative connotations in some languages. Furthermore, the name was met with jokes and mixed reactions online, prompting the agency to take swift action. Moving forward, the seven-member boy group will now be known as EVNNE, pronounced ‘even’. This new name stands for “Evening’s Newest Etoiles,” symbolizing a new rising star in the night sky. It’s a testament to the group’s ambition to shine brightly and capture the attention of fans worldwide.

Interestingly, EVNNE was not a name pulled out of thin air. It was a nickname that Jellyfish and the members had been using internally since the group’s inception. After the potential issues with the initial name surfaced, the agency collaborated with the members, and together they settled on EVNNE.

EVNNE is gearing up to debut

In line with the name change, EVNNE also unveiled their official social media accounts, giving fans a glimpse of their first group photo and individual selfies. This move showcases the group’s readiness to engage with their audience. Their goal is to build a strong online presence ahead of their debut.

The group, formed by contestants from the hit Mnet survival show Boys Planet, showcases talents who garnered significant attention and popularity. They may not have debuted, but they captured the public’s hearts nonetheless. Now, under the guidance of Jellyfish Entertainment, these seven boys are gearing up for their official debut, scheduled for the latter half of this year.

It’s commendable that Jellyfish Entertainment acted promptly to ensure their new group starts on the right foot. Fans are eagerly awaiting EVNNE‘s debut, and with the positive steps taken by the agency, the future looks promising for these rising stars. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: EVNNE’s first group photo shows them covered in shadows because they have yet to debut. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

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