Category: K-POP ARTISTS

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BLACKPINK Jisoo and Park Jung Min Star as Separated Lovers in “Newtopia”

BLACKPINK Jisoo still cuts for "Newtopia"

Coupang Play has officially confirmed the lead roles for the highly anticipated zombie drama “Newtopia.” The new series stars BLACKPINK Jisoo and acclaimed actor Park Jung Min. The two will portray a couple desperately trying to reunite in a zombie-ridden Seoul.

“Newtopia” stars BLACKPINK Jisoo and Park Jung Min as lovers trying to reunite in a zombie-infested Seoul

In the drama, Park Jung Min will play the role of Jae Yoon, a soldier struggling with insecurity about his future. As he serves in the military, a sudden zombie outbreak traps him and his comrades in the chaos. Known for films like “Deliver Us from Evil,” “Smugglers,” and “Start-Up,” the actor will once again grace the screens.

Jisoo from BLACKPINK is also venturing outside of her successful musical career. Previously, the idol actress delivered an impressive acting debut in “Snowdrop.” In this upcoming drama, she will take on the role of Kang Young Joo, Jae Yoon’s girlfriend. Young Joo is a recent engineering graduate who has just started her first job. The series explores her journey as she navigates the dangers of a zombie-infested city to reunite with Jae Yoon.

The newly released stills from “Newtopia” show Jae Yoon gasping for breath, shocked by the unfolding events. His subordinate, In Ho, portrayed by Im Sung Jae, looks equally terrified, hinting at the imminent dangers they are about to face.

“Newtopia” promises to deliver a thrilling narrative filled with suspense, action, and the emotional struggles of its characters. As both lead characters find each other amidst chaos, the drama excites viewers with the themes of love and survival.

Fans eagerly await the series premiere, excited to see Jisoo and Park Jung Min’s chemistry and the unique take on the zombie genre. The combination of a gripping storyline and a talented cast makes “Newtopia” one of the most anticipated dramas of the year.

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IVE Rei Apologizes for Racially Insensitive Remarks

Rei addresses backlash over comments made about a “tanning” Hello Kitty doll during a livestream

IVE member Rei recently found herself at the center of controversy after making comments during a livestream that some netizens found racially insensitive. The incident occurred on July 31, when Rei showed fans her Hello Kitty doll, referring to it as a “tanning Kitty.” She explained that she had dressed the doll in clothes with a “hip hop” vibe and pretended it was rapping.

The remarks sparked backlash online, with some viewers interpreting her comments as associating the “tanning Kitty” with racial stereotypes. While some fans argued that Rei’s comments were unintentionally offensive, others believed she was being insensitive.

In response to the criticism, Rei took to a fan messaging app to issue an apology and clarify her intentions. She expressed regret for any hurt her comments may have caused, writing, “While I was monitoring my live stream, I found out that the remarks I made during the last live because I wanted to show off my favorite doll to Dive (IVE’s fanclub) were inappropriate, which was not my intention.” Rei also acknowledged the global reach of her remarks, stating, “I also want to acknowledge that I made the wrong remarks on Dive’s live show around the world and sincerely apologize to Dive who I’ve hurt because of this.”

Rei emphasized her commitment to being more mindful in the future, noting that she would consider the impact of her words more carefully. She concluded her apology by addressing her language barrier, saying, “I am not good at English, so I am sorry to deliver it in Korean.”

The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of cultural sensitivity, particularly for public figures with a diverse, international audience. As Rei navigates the aftermath, she aims to use this experience as a learning opportunity to improve her communication with fans.

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Ch1tkey’s Disturbing Actions Continue After Death Hoax

Rapper Ch1tkey, real name Jeong Joon-Hyeok, has not ceased his disturbing behavior even after his controversial fake death hoax. On July 30th, Ch1tkey shocked fans and the public with a staged death announcement, which was soon revealed to be a hoax. Despite widespread criticism, he has shown no remorse, instead continuing to display alarming behavior.

Following his fake death hoax, Ch1tkey continues to display concerning and erratic behavior, raising alarms among fans and the public

The night of the hoax revelation, Ch1tkey posted a cryptic “Hello” on social media, accompanied by a photo of himself holding a saw. In a live broadcast early the next day, he made aggressive statements, threatening violence, saying, “If a bug enters your house, do you kill it or not? You kill it, right? If you stay still, I won’t kill you, but if you come at me, I’ll kill you.”

Ch1tkey’s comments grew even more troubling as he referenced his hoax as a “resurrection” and hinted at more extreme actions. He claimed, “I wasn’t just trying to create hype with the hoax, but I was planning to release an album and resurrect myself.” He shockingly added that he had “fooled the entire nation” and implied he could do so again.

His statements did not stop there. Ch1tkey also made alarming comments about former South Korean President Roh Moo-Hyun and North Korean leader Kim Il-Sung and hinted at potential violence, saying, “I’d rather carry a chainsaw around than get caught with a gun.” He also mentioned planning to “eat human flesh,” a statement that has caused significant concern among viewers and authorities.

Ch1tkey defended his actions, claiming that he had not broken any laws and was merely testing the public and media. He said, “This isn’t a waste of public resources. The journalists came to my house without verifying the facts. The world is strange, not me.” He concluded by expressing no intention to reflect on his actions, stating, “I’m not going to reflect. Go to hell.”

The rapper’s troubling statements and behavior have sparked widespread alarm, with many questioning his mental state and the potential consequences of his actions. As of now, authorities are monitoring his behavior.

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Go Jun Hee Talks About “Burning Sun” Scandal

Go Jun Hee addresses long-standing rumors while reflecting on the personal toll they have taken

Go Jun Hee recently opened up about the long-standing rumors connecting her to the infamous “Burning Sun” scandal during an appearance on the YouTube show Don’t Forget Your Breakfast 2. The actress expressed frustration over a photo that sparked false allegations, stating, “I don’t even know where Burning Sun is and have never been there.” She shared that despite repeatedly denying the claims, her explanations were often edited out, leading the rumors to persist for years.

The scandal had a serious impact on both her career and personal life. Go Jun Hee revealed that she lost out on projects, and the stress even caused her mother to develop vertigo. Fighting back tears, she shared that while she coped with the situation, the constant inquiries about her mother’s well-being took a toll on her family. “I’m fine, but people keep asking my mom, ‘Are you okay?’” she explained, highlighting how the rumors affected those closest to her.

As she prepares to make her stage debut in Angels in America, fans are curious to see how Go Jun Hee will move forward after overcoming this challenging chapter in her life. Her candid reflections shed light on the emotional burden that public figures often endure due to baseless allegations and how it affects not just them but their loved ones as well.

The Burning Sun scandal, which erupted in 2019, centered around a nightclub in Seoul and involved serious allegations of drug use, sexual assault, police corruption, and illegal filming. The scandal implicated several high-profile figures in the K-pop industry, including Seungri from BIGBANG, who was accused of facilitating prostitution and embezzlement.

The case highlighted the dark side of fame and power in South Korea’s entertainment world.

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aespa Karina Reveals Heartfelt Family Letters in Emotional Video

aespa Karina reveals touching messages from her family that show their unwavering support

In a recent video released by W KOREA on July 29, KST, aespa Karina opened up about the items she holds dear, including a collection of heartfelt letters from her family. During the video titled We’ve Been Waiting for Aespa Karina’s In My Bag. We Will Properly Serve You, she showcased various personal belongings, such as a notebook, a cat pouch, and a treasured letter box she has kept since kindergarten.

She proudly shared that the box is filled with letters from friends, family, and fellow aespa members. Among the most touching items were birthday letters from her parents and older sister, where they expressed their concerns about her health amid her hectic schedule. However, what moved Karina the most was a recent letter from her mother written after a concert, which she read aloud on camera.

In the letter, her mother wrote, “Physically, we can’t spend time together, but our hearts are always with you. Even when we’re with other family members, you’re always part of our conversations. Remember that you are the most precious and valuable person, and enjoy yourself well.” As Karina read these words, she became visibly emotional, showing how much her family’s love and support meant to her.

Fans were deeply touched by this glimpse into Karina’s personal life, highlighting the strong bond she shares with her family despite the challenges of her demanding career.

In related news, aespa has the latest releases, “Armageddon” and “Supernova.” The first single reflects an intense vibe with hard-hitting beats, futuristic elements, and a signature cyber-themed concept. In contrast, “Supernova” gives a more melodic side, blending vocals with rhythm. Together, these tracks demonstrate aespa’s ability to explore different musical styles while maintaining their unique identity in the K-pop scene.

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BXB Jihoon Cast as Lead in “Sunny Ten” Musical

BX Jihoon takes center stage as the lead in a musical filled with 90s nostalgia and comedy

BXB Jihoon, who gained widespread recognition for his powerful vocals and captivating performances, takes the lead role in the upcoming musical Sunny Ten. Jihoon first gained popularity as the main vocalist of BXB, where his emotional delivery and impressive range made him a standout in K-pop. His success grew with the group’s hit songs and engaging live performances, establishing him as one of the most promising idols in the industry.

The musical Sunny Ten follows the story of Junho, a TV producer whose projects constantly fail, and his attempts to win over Hyeyoung, a workaholic animation writer. With a backdrop of 90s and 2000s hit songs, the production mixes comedy, romance, and nostalgia, offering a unique experience for the audience.

Jihoon’s role as Junho will highlight his strong vocals, natural comedic timing, and stage presence. Fans are excited to see how he brings his acting skills to this role, given his experience in music and drama. Beyond his work with BXB, Jihoon has appeared in popular dramas like The Queen’s Classroom and Melody of Love, alongside film and voice acting roles. His journey from trainee to established artist shows his versatility and consistent growth, making this role a key milestone in his career.

The musical opens at the Hama Theater in mid-August, giving audiences the chance to see Jihoon in action. His portrayal of a clumsy yet lovable character promises to captivate viewers, adding to the buzz surrounding Sunny Ten.

In related news, BXB’s released their latest single, “Black Cat Nero,” a dynamic reinterpretation of the classic K-pop hit by Turbo, originally from the late 90s. The track blends nostalgic elements with a modern twist, featuring powerful vocals, edgy rap verses, and an energetic beat that brings a fresh vibe to the song.

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EXID Hani and Yang Jae Woong in Backlash Ahead of Wedding

EXID Hani and fiance Yang Jae Woong face growing criticism online following a tragic incident linked to a psychiatric hospital

EXID Hani and psychiatrist Yang Jae Woong face backlash as their September wedding approaches. On May 31, the couple announced their wedding plans, receiving warm congratulations at first. Yang Jae Woong even shared on a TV show that Hani proposed to him, while Hani expressed her excitement about spending her life with him. However, the couple’s social media accounts are now flooded with negative comments following a tragic event connected to a psychiatric hospital.

The controversy stems from a May 26 report by SBS about the death of a 33-year-old woman at a psychiatric hospital in Bucheon, Gyeonggi Province. The woman, who was hospitalized for addiction treatment, died after being restrained in her room despite showing signs of severe distress. Netizens began speculating that the hospital involved could be linked to Yang Jae Woong, further fueling the backlash against the couple.

The situation escalated after the woman’s family claimed they specifically chose the hospital because it was run by a well-known psychiatrist with expertise in addiction. Although these claims remain unconfirmed, the suspicions have led to an overload on the hospital’s website, which is operated by Yang Jae Woong and his brother.

Comments on social media have become increasingly harsh, with people questioning the couple’s decision to announce their wedding so close to this tragic event. Remarks like, “Announcing your wedding three days after a patient’s death?” and “You should reconsider your marriage after this incident,” emphasize the growing disapproval. As their wedding date nears, it remains to be seen how Hani and Yang Jae Woong will address these criticisms.

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NewJeans Condolence Wreaths Protest Organized by “Bunnies”

Fans supporting ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin organize a NewJeans condolence wreaths protest, ignoring internal and external criticism

NewJeans’ fans, known as “Bunnies,” plan to protest at HYBE’s headquarters by sending condolence wreaths, a gesture traditionally used for funerals. The protest, scheduled from July 30 to August 1, reflects tensions between fans loyal to ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin and HYBE over ongoing conflicts. Despite knowing this event clashes with a LE SSERAFIM member’s birthday celebration at the same location, organizers decided to proceed, drawing significant criticism.

Members of the NewJeans gallery on DC Inside, an online community supportive of Min Hee Jin, initiated the protest. They announced the event on July 27, two weeks after LE SSERAFIM’s fans revealed plans for Kim Chae Won’s birthday festivities at HYBE, which include a “wrapping bus” and other celebratory activities.

The public argues that sending condolence wreaths during a birthday event creates a disturbing contrast, but organizers dismissed these concerns. LE SSERAFIM’s fans requested a change in the protest date, but NewJeans fans refused, pointing out that BTS’s fandom, ARMY, held a similar protest during a NewJeans member’s birthday. This is just among the controversies that pile up in relation to Min Hee Jin and HYBE.

Protest supporters believe their demonstration doesn’t directly involve LE SSERAFIM and should not interfere with the birthday event. However, many K-pop fans fear this protest could harm NewJeans’ reputation and create unnecessary conflicts. Additionally, tensions within HYBE remain high as Min Hee Jin faces separate legal battles with Source Music CEO So Sung Jin, who has accused her of embezzlement and filed a lawsuit demanding 500 million KRW (approximately 361,724 USD) in damages.

As the protest approaches, the K-pop community continues to monitor how both fandoms handle these overlapping events. The outcome could set a precedent for future fan demonstrations and their impact on K-pop artists.

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(G)I-DLE Sends Apology and Donation to Korean Red Cross After Backlash on Stage Outfits

(G)I-DLE responds to the controversy over their stage costumes by apologizing and donating to flood recovery efforts

(G)I-DLE recently found themselves at the center of controversy after their outfits on KBS2’s Music Bank sparked backlash. The group wore lifeguard-themed costumes featuring the unauthorized use of the Red Cross symbol, which is strictly regulated by the Korean Red Cross. The use of this emblem without permission is prohibited and can result in significant fines under Korean law.

Criticism extended beyond the use of the symbol, as the group’s outfits were also deemed inappropriate for “sexualizing” the lifeguard profession. In response, Cube Entertainment issued an apology on social media, acknowledging the issue and stating that they had contacted the Korean Red Cross to apologize. They also committed to preventing such issues in the future.

Going further than just words, (G)I-DLE members Miyeon, Minnie, Soyeon, Yuqi, and Shuhua each donated 10 million KRW, totaling 50 million KRW (~36,172 USD), to support flood recovery efforts. The group expressed their understanding of the Red Cross emblem’s significance and hoped their donation would aid in the recovery of those affected by recent heavy rains.

Kim Chul Soo, President of the Korean Red Cross, thanked the group, noting that their support would provide comfort and strength to flood victims. The Korean Red Cross, which has been actively engaged in relief efforts since early July, continues to support disaster recovery across the country.

In related news, (G)I-DLE’s latest track, Klaxon, is the song of their seventh mini-album, I SWAY, released in July 2024. The song brings a mix of retro and summer vibes, drawing inspiration from 90s Californian aesthetics. With a catchy melody and a lively “honk honk” hook, the music video showcases the members cruising through heavy traffic in vibrant outfits while performing energetic choreography. The song’s playful yet nostalgic feel is complemented by leader Soyeon’s involvement in writing and co-producing the track.

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Aespa Winter Kept Being Called by Sasaengs During Live

aespa Winter faced repeated interruptions from a Sasaeng fan during her recent Weverse live stream

During a recent Weverse livestream, aespa Winter experienced repeated disruptions caused by a Sasaeng fan who obtained her phone number. Throughout the broadcast, the fan persistently called her, causing multiple interruptions and even disconnecting the stream several times.

Despite the frustrating situation, Winter tried to address the issue directly. She titled her live stream “Don’t call me” and later expressed her annoyance in a message to the Sasaeng. “Please don’t call… Why are you calling? Why are you making a call? Are you curious if this is my number? Yes, it’s my number! It’s mine. So! When I’m hanging out with fans and MYs, please don’t call,” Winter pleaded, hoping to stop the interruptions during her interaction with fans.

Korean netizens reacted strongly to the incident, with many expressing concern for Winter’s well-being. Some noted that Sasaeng fans seem to harass her frequently during live streams, while others defended her calm response to the situation. Despite the distressing interruptions, she managed to maintain her composure, even addressing the issue with a smile.

The frightening sasaeng behavior

Invasive Sasaeng behavior has become a significant issue for K-pop idols, as these obsessive fans often cross personal boundaries in their pursuit of their favorite celebrities. This behavior includes obtaining private information like phone numbers, addresses, and schedules, leading to constant harassment and stress for the idols. Such actions not only invade the personal space of these artists but also disrupt their ability to engage freely and comfortably with their true fans during live streams or public appearances.

Sasaeng behavior does more than just annoy idols; it can cause serious emotional and mental harm. These constant intrusions make idols feel unsafe and watched all the time, even in their private moments. Although agencies try to protect their artists, the ongoing actions of Sasaeng fans remain a big problem in the K-pop industry, showing the need for stronger rules and more respect for the personal space of public figures.

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