Category: K-POP ARTISTS

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Fans Protest HYBE’s Alleged Information Leaks

NewJeans fans protest

NewJeans fans stand in front of HYBE headquarters over alleged information leaks and media manipulation

NewJeans fans took action by sending protest trucks to HYBE’s headquarters, voicing their concerns over recent allegations against the company. Fans, who call themselves “Bunnies,” organized the protest after hearing that HYBE had allegedly leaked confidential information about NewJeans to Dispatch and other media outlets.

The protest trucks stationed in front of HYBE’s building displayed strong messages condemning the company’s actions. Fans accused HYBE of intentionally leaking sensitive information and manipulating media coverage to their advantage. One truck displayed the message, “Leaking information to YouTube channels and reverse viral marketing to yellow journalism, illegal personal information leaks by HYBE—above the law and human rights?”

Another message directly addressed HYBE’s leadership, including Bang Si Hyuk and Park Ji Won, demanding that they take responsibility and issue an apology. The fans’ protest underscored their support for NewJeans and ADOR while calling on HYBE to stop what they see as illegal and unethical practices.

This protest demonstrates the Bunnies’ commitment to protecting NewJeans and holding HYBE accountable for actions that they believe could harm the group. Fans are determined to ensure that their voices are heard and that HYBE ceases any actions that could negatively impact NewJeans.

The dispute between HYBE and ADOR, the label responsible for managing NewJeans, has intensified as fans grow increasingly concerned about the handling of the group’s information. Tensions escalated when allegations surfaced that HYBE, the parent company of ADOR, had leaked confidential details about NewJeans to media outlets like Dispatch.

Fans believe that this breach of trust undermines the group’s integrity and puts their privacy at risk. The conflict highlights the challenges within the management structure, where decisions by HYBE may not always align with ADOR’s interests, leading to growing dissatisfaction among the fanbase.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Express Outrage Over the Release of Trainee Videos

Dispatch’s recent release of unrevealed trainee videos has sparked significant backlash from the NewJeans members and their parents. The videos, which feature the group during their trainee days, were made public without consent, leading to accusations of privacy invasion and misinformation.

NewJeans and their parents are furious about the unauthorized release of trainee footage

On July 23, ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin refuted allegations that she had poached the NewJeans members from Source Music, labeling these claims as “false” and announcing plans for legal action. In a statement to Newsen, ADOR emphasized, “The reported information is false. We plan to take legal action against HYBE for providing edited personal messages and against the unauthorized release of trainee videos, as NewJeans members and their parents are outraged by this invasion of privacy.”

Earlier, Dispatch had released the trainee videos, asserting that Min Hee Jin had recruited the NewJeans members from Source Music. This incident marks the latest development in the ongoing feud between ADOR and HYBE. According to Min Hee Jin, she personally selected the NewJeans members, while HYBE maintains that the members were part of Source Music’s girl group project, ‘Team N.’

The release of these videos by Dispatch, showing Source Music’s Team N trainees, has further complicated the situation. NewJeans members and their parents are particularly upset by the dissemination of these personal and previously unseen videos, which they believe violate their privacy and misrepresent the facts.

NewJeans officially debuted in August 2022 under ADOR, a subsidiary of HYBE Corporation. Their debut EP, “New Jeans,” quickly gained traction with hit singles like “Attention” and “Hype Boy,” showcasing their fresh take on K-Pop.

The ongoing dispute between ADOR and HYBE highlights the complexities of talent management and the importance of respecting personal boundaries in the entertainment industry. As the situation develops, fans and industry watchers alike are eager to see how this legal and public relations battle will unfold.

Categories
K-DRAMA K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES

Choi Minho to Attend Paris Olympics as World’s First “Olympic Friend”

Choi Minho, member of the K-Pop group SHINee, is set to make history by becoming the world’s first “Olympic Friend” at the 33rd Olympic Games in Paris. According to SM Entertainment, Minho will attend the games, which begin on July 26, as an official representative for the International Olympic Committee (IOC). As part of his role, he will be present at various events, with spectators and cheering on Korean athletes.

Minho will promote Olympic values and support Korean athletes in Paris

Minho’s appointment as the first “Olympic Friend” marks an important milestone in his career. This new IOC initiative involves celebrities promoting the values of the Olympic Games. Minho has previously supported the “Winter Youth Olympic Games of Gangwon 2024” by participating in torch relay activities and engaging with athletes. His involvement in Olympic-related events dates back to 2017 when he contributed to the public diplomacy campaign “Girls Play 2!” and delivered a congratulatory speech for the “2018 Pyeongchang Olympic Games,” which garnered widespread attention.

The Paris Olympics, officially the 33rd Olympic Games, will be held from July 26 to August 11, 2024. The event will feature athletes from around the globe competing in a wide range of sports, showcasing their skills and vying for prestigious Olympic medals. The city of Paris will host numerous competitions, ceremonies, and cultural events, making it a spectacular global sporting celebration.

In addition to his Olympic involvement, Minho is also expanding his acting career. He will star as Nam Tae Pyeong in JTBC’s new drama “Family X Melo,” set to premiere on August 10. Furthermore, he will make his stage debut in the play “Waiting for Godot” at Yes24 Stage 3 on September 7, portraying the character Val.

Minho’s participation in the Paris Olympics as an “Olympic Friend” is expected to draw significant interest and highlight his dedication to promoting sports and cultural events worldwide. His continued contributions to both the entertainment industry and global sporting events prove his versatile talents and commitment to various causes.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

HYBE Employees Talks About Min Hee Jin’s Text Leaks

The recent leak of private KakaoTalk messages from ADOR CEO Min Hee Jin has ignited controversy, sparking widespread discussion across online communities. Reactions have been mixed, with some netizens criticizing the harsh language Min Hee Jin allegedly used towards NewJeans members, while others continue to support her.

Insider reactions to the controversial leaks of private messages reveal a divide in opinions within the company

HYBE employees have also weighed in on the situation, offering their perspectives as insiders within the company. Many have expressed support for Min Hee Jin, condemning HYBE for exposing her private conversations. These opinions were shared on BLIND, an anonymous platform where employees can comment openly after verifying their employment through work email credentials.

One employee questioned the motivations behind the leaks, stating, “Is Min Hee Jin running for president or something? Why is she being exposed so much? If you’re going to criticize, do it openly. It’s not good to see such a biased situation.”

Another criticized HYBE’s handling of the situation, suggesting that the company’s actions could harm its own artists and disrupt the entertainment industry as a whole. “HYBE’s media play has crossed the line as a big company,” they wrote. “It seems like it’s time for the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism or the Board of Audit and Inspection to intervene and stop HYBE’s reckless actions.”

Despite the controversy, some employees believe that Min Hee Jin will remain resilient. One commented, “HYBE is mistaken if they think this can shake Min Hee Jin. She’s someone who has already unabashedly cursed during a press conference. Even if they’re using Dispatch to play up her harsh words on KakaoTalk now, it won’t really affect her much.”

As the fallout from these leaks continues, the divide within HYBE and among fans highlights the complexities of navigating public and private boundaries in the entertainment industry.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK Lisa is Louis Vuitton’s New Ambassador

BLACKPINK Lisa has added another prestigious title to her extensive list of accomplishments. The French fashion house Louis Vuitton has officially appointed her as its newest House Ambassador. This exciting news was announced on July 23, 2024 along with photos from Louis Vuitton’s finest.

BLACKPINK Lisa brings her bold fashion sense to the luxury brand ‘Louis Vuitton’

BLACKPINK Lisa previously represented the LVMH-owned brand Celine. Last March, speculations about this new partnership rose when she attended the Louis Vuitton Women’s fall-winter 2024 show in Paris. Sporting an ensemble from the maison, she grabbed the attention of fashion enthusiasts and media.

Earlier in the year, she made headlines by sporting a Louis Vuitton monogram bikini, further fueling the rumors. Now, with the partnership confirmed, fans can eagerly anticipate more iconic Lisa x Louis Vuitton collaborations.

Louis Vuitton has stated that her selection as its new ambassador aligns perfectly with the brand’s vision. “Her bold sartorial choices notably reflect Nicolas Ghesquière’s own strong womenswear vision marked by individuality and empowerment,” the fashion house stated. Nicolas Ghesquière, Louis Vuitton’s artistic director of women’s collections, expressed his excitement, saying, “I am very excited to welcome Lisa as a House Ambassador. She has a daring spirit and charisma that I find incredibly compelling. She is as bold and creative with her music as she is with her fashion, and it is a privilege to accompany her on this journey.”

In her new role, Lisa joins an illustrious group of Louis Vuitton ambassadors, including Stray Kids’ Felix, RIIZE, LE SSERAFIM, Hoyeon Jung, and Zendaya. Her unique appeal and audacious style promise to bring a fresh and vibrant energy to the brand.

Expressing her enthusiasm for the new role, Lisa shared in a promotional video, “I feel so honored to be working with such a great brand that I admire, so I am really looking forward to making greater moments with Louis Vuitton.” As Lisa continues to break boundaries, her work with Louis Vuitton is set to create an indelible mark on the fashion industry.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

SM Entertainment Faces Accusations of Stirring HYBE Conflict

Reports reveal that SM Entertainment allegedly manipulated public opinion against rival label HYBE. Accusations suggest that SM Entertainment hired a public relations firm, Astraphe, during its escalating conflict with HYBE.

SM Entertainment allegedly manipulated public sentiment against HYBE

Leaked Telegram conversations indicate that Astraphe created a dedicated chat room for their viral marketing staff and SM employees. This chat room allegedly aimed to generate positive sentiments towards their company while spreading negative about HYBE.

Financial records show that SM paid Astraphe a staggering 1.38 billion won, approximately $995,699.81 USD. Although SM Entertainment claimed the money was for banner advertisements, insiders say viral marketing activities began on March 1. The Telegram leaks reveal an SM employee urgently requesting quick viral marketing action, and Astraphe agreed.

Additionally, the alleged strategies included sharing positive articles about SM Entertainment. However, it contained negative ones about HYBE in various online communities.

They reportedly used scare tactics to make fans worry SM Entertainment artists might be disbanded or released if HYBE took over. In a fan cafe post, one statement read, “As an SM fan, I think it could be worse if HYBE takes over. HYBE will demand management rights, and SM artists might not get opportunities.” Astraphe’s employees reportedly made sure their posts appeared as if they originated from genuine netizens.

The viral marketing reportedly persisted for a month, with Astraphe’s employees editing their posts to sound like real user interactions to avoid detection.

Furthermore, the company responded to the allegations by clarifying their motives. In an official statement, the company said, “We conducted online marketing activities. This was through an outside agency to promote the SM 3.0 shareholder proposal and proxy solicitation website. The activities included sharing related articles on online communities. This was part of a ‘media mix’ proposal from the agency with little impact on the campaign.”

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ADOR Denies Poaching NewJeans and Accuses HYBE of Providing False Information to Dispatch

On July 23, ADOR strongly denied allegations that they had poached NewJeans trainees from Source Music to form NewJeans. The agency announced plans to take legal action against HYBE and Dispatch, the media outlet responsible for the report.

ADOR refutes claims of poaching NewJeans and plans to take legal action against HYBE and Dispatch

ADOR stated, “The contents of the article in question are false and reconstructed based on speculation. We will take strong legal action against these false claims.” They emphasized that HYBE and Source Music cooperated in providing false information. They argue that the reported details, such as internal meeting records, task divisions, and personal KakaoTalk messages, are impossible to publish accurately.

In addition, ADOR criticized HYBE and Source Music for exposing the personal information of former trainees and artists without consent. This included medical records and demo tapes. They emphasized that Source Music had ended the trainee contracts and did not permit the use of likenesses or voices.

Furthermore, ADOR announced plans to pursue strong legal action against HYBE and Source Music for their unethical behavior. “The trainee contracts between Source Music and NewJeans members have ended, and there was no agreement permitting the use of their likenesses or voices. Thus, Source Music’s release of trainee videos through media is a severe illegal act. It violates the members’ portrait rights. We request immediate measures to protect the artists,” ADOR stated.

Previously, a media outlet reported that Min Hee Jin took NewJeans members, who were Source Music trainees, to debut under ADOR. The report included messenger conversations and videos of the trainees, leading to the current controversy.

Contrary to Dispatch’s claims, the indefinite postponement of Team N’s debut due to Min Hee Jin’s alleged negligence is far from the truth. To clarify the situation, ADOR released emails from 2021. The timeline provided by ADOR is as follows:

  1. In March 2020, BigHit’s marketing team proposed a launch strategy for ‘Team 21.’ Min Hee Jin found the direction unsuitable and prepared an alternative strategy.
  2. In May 2020, Min Hee Jin presented her launch strategy, which Bang Si Hyuk praised but deemed too ambitious for Source Music’s infrastructure. He suggested Min Hee Jin’s label handle the project.
  3. In August 2020, Source Music re-proposed an initial plan, largely copying Min Hee Jin’s strategy. Complaints arose, and Source Music acknowledged the issue.
Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Dispatch Accuses Min Hee Jin of Stealing NewJeans

The K-pop industry is no stranger to controversy, and recent allegations by Dispatch have set the stage for yet another scandal. Dispatch has accused Min Hee Jin of allegedly stealing the group NewJeans. These revelations have stirred up quite a storm among fans and insiders.

NewJeans CEO Min Hee Jin and HYBE dispute continue

According to Dispatch, Min Hee Jin, who previously worked at SM Entertainment and is now a significant player at ADOR, supposedly appropriated creative ideas and managerial rights related to NewJeans. The accusation is that she took these concepts without proper authorization or acknowledgment, raising eyebrows across the industry.

Meanwhile, Min Hee Jin has responded strongly to the allegations. In a public statement, she said, “These accusations are baseless and aimed at tarnishing my reputation. I have always worked ethically and within the parameters set by the companies I’ve been affiliated with.” However, her denial has not yet silenced the growing talks of the public.

Interestingly, this is not the first time Min Hee Jin has been the center of attention. The ADOR CEO has played a crucial role in shaping the careers of several successful K-pop artists. This latest allegation, however, puts a dark cloud over her otherwise celebrated career.

Fans are divided in their reactions. Some stand firmly behind Min Hee Jin, emphasizing her contributions to the industry and dismissing the accusations as unfounded. Others are more skeptical, calling for a thorough investigation to bring the truth to light. Social media platforms are abuzz with debates and discussions, reflecting the high stakes and emotional investments involved.

As the story continues to unfold, the K-pop community remains on edge. The resolution of this controversy will likely have far-reaching implications, not just for Min Hee Jin and NewJeans but for the broader K-pop industry as well. Whether these accusations hold water or fade away will be carefully watched by fans and the public.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

What to Expect in KCON LA 2024

KCON LA 2024 is set to excite fans from July 26-28 at the Crypto.com Arena, LA Convention Center, and Gilbert Lindsay Plaza. This year’s festival promises a never-before-seen celebration of K-POP culture, uniting artists with their passionate fans for an unforgettable experience. With limited-time ticket pricing available, fans can seize the opportunity to access the KCON Stage, M&G Stage, and the entire Festival Grounds.

Unforgettable K-POP Experience Awaits at KCON LA 2024

The festival will showcase an incredible roster of artists, including A.C.E, AleXa, APOKI, BIBI, BOYNEXTDOOR, CRAXY, DRIPPIN, DXMON, and ENHYPEN.  It will also feature god, HYOLYN, izna, INI, Isaac Hong, JEON SOMI, JO YURI, Kep1er, ME, NCT 127, NMIXX, POW, P1Harmony, STAYC, TAEMIN, TWS, ZEROBASEONE, and ZICO. This will also be a thrilling moment for fans as M COUNTDOWN returns, featuring performances and the chance for attendees to join the ‘DREAM STAGE’ audition, which offers the opportunity to dance alongside their favorite stars in front of a live audience.

For those craving more, the KCON Stage will offer exclusive performances, mini concerts, surprise covers, and more, with many stages upgraded for an enhanced experience. The M&G Stage will be buzzing with Meet & Greets and showcase programs, giving fans a chance to meet their favorite groups and discover new ones. K-Drama enthusiasts are in for a treat with special fan meetings featuring stars like Park Min Young and Kim Soo Hyun.

Attendees can also look forward to a lot of freebies with every ticket to the Festival Grounds. The outdoor Gilbert Lindsay Plaza will transform into a vibrant Festival Ground with activities such as “DANCE ALL DAY” and “RANDOM PLAY DANCE.” Additionally, the new Fan & Artist Gallery will feature a museum-like display of artists’ personal items, backstage props, performance outfits, and behind-the-scenes stories.

Exclusive panels and workshops will provide fans with the chance to engage with K-POP industry insiders, influencers, and artists, offering valuable insights and a deeper understanding of the K-POP world. KCON LA 2024 promises to be an event where K-POP dreams truly come to life.

Categories
K-DRAMA K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES

Choi Siwon Transforms Into a Talented Obstetrician in DNA Lover”

Choi Siwon takes on the role of Shim Yeon Woo, a skilled obstetrician with a knack for social intelligence

TV Chosun’s upcoming drama “DNA Lover” introduces Choi Siwon in a captivating new role. Known for his charm, Choi Siwon transforms into Shim Yeon Woo, a talented and sensitive obstetrician who excels at social intelligence and always wins women’s hearts. The drama, directed by Sung Chi Wook and written by Jung Soo Mi, follows the story of Han So Jin (played by Jung In Sun), a genetic researcher searching for her destined partner through genes.

In “DNA Lover,” Choi Siwon’s character, Shim Yeon Woo, swiftly ends relationships when his partners become too possessive or controlling. The recently released stills showcase Yeon Woo treating patients and interacting with nurses at the hospital. His bright smile for his colleagues contrasts with his troubled expression while examining patients, sparking viewers’ curiosity about his character’s depth.

He expressed his excitement about the role, saying, “I am thrilled to greet viewers after a long time through the role of Shim Yeon Woo. I am doing my best on set with the excellent director, writer, staff, and fellow actors. The set is always filled with laughter, so I think it will be a great memory.” He added, “I’m looking forward to the drama. I hope you will have a good laugh and feel excitement while watching ‘DNA Lover.’”

The production team praised his performance, commenting, “Choi Siwon will once again prove his status as the ‘king of rom-coms’ through ‘DNA Lover.’ Please look forward to the premiere of ‘DNA Lover,’ which will be even more interesting thanks to Choi Siwon.”

“DNA Lover” promises to blend science and romance in a delightful narrative. Fans eagerly anticipate the drama’s premiere on August 17 at 9:10 p.m. KST, looking forward to his portrayal of Shim Yeon Woo.

Exit mobile version