Category: K-POP ARTISTS

In a recent episode of tvN’s Yoo Quiz on the Block, aired on September 20, the spotlight was on Kim Nam-gil. The actor delved into his close bond with BTS‘ Jin and expressed his feelings on being considered a role model by the global superstar. The episode was not just about this revelation; it also highlighted Kim Nam-gil‘s latest drama, Song of the Bandits.

The show, hosted by Yoo Jae-suk, took a moment to commend Kim Nam-gil‘s iconic action scenes from his previous works. His portrayal of Bidam in Queen Seondeok stood out, leaving quite the impression on many, including BTS‘s Jin. Yoo Jae-suk reminisced about the actor’s journey, from passing an audition in 2003 to becoming a top-ranked talent and eventually landing the role of Bidam.

When asked about his reaction to Jin looking up to him after watching Queen Seondeok, Kim Nam-gil responded, “It’s touching to hear that I became a role model for someone.” He described Jin as talkative yet pure-hearted, emphasizing their shared personality traits. The two have met in person and spent quality time together, further strengthening their bond. Kim Nam-gil has since been vocal about supporting Jin’s potential acting career.

Kim Nam-gil has a soft spot for Jin

It’s widely known that Kim Nam-gil has a soft spot for Jin. In a previous interview, he mentioned being aware of Jin‘s admiration for him. Their first in-person meeting marked the beginning of a close-knit relationship. The veteran actor has since been vocal about supporting the BTS member should he go into acting.

Their camaraderie was evident during the VIP premiere of the film Emergency Declaration, in which Kim Nam-gil played a pivotal role. A behind-the-scenes video from the premiere showed how much he cared for his dongsaeng. His affectionate attitude towards Jin, introducing him to other veteran actors, including Parasite star Song Kang-ho, was a sight to behold.

In addition to discussing his bond with Jin, Kim Nam-gil also promoted his upcoming drama. Set to premiere on Netflix on September 22, Song of the Bandits will feature him in a leading role. The series boasts a stellar cast, including Yoo Jae Myung, SNSD‘s Seohyun, and many more. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jin has admired Nam-gil for years. They finally met for the first time in 2021., at a movie premiere. Source: Twitter/@charts_k.

BTS has a history that those new to the fandom might find hard to believe. They began their journey with a then-bankrupt agency, BigHit Music. Their dedication and talent played a pivotal role in building the legacy of BigHit Music, which later evolved into the empire known as HYBE Corp.

BigHit decided to focus solely on BTS

However, the BTS we know today, consisting of seven members, wasn’t the initial lineup. BigHit Music was grooming several young talents to find the perfect combination for the group. As revealed in BTS‘ official biography, Beyond The Story, BigHit decided to focus solely on BTS’ debut due to limited resources. This decision meant letting go of their other trainees, including Hwan Jihwan and Kim Jihoon, who had to abandon their dreams of becoming idols.

[INT] What does it take to become BTS according to former trainees [Part 1]

In a recent interview with Korea Now, Jihoon and Jihwan shared their experiences. Kim Jihoon recalled the period when trainees were leaving BigHit almost weekly. When he was informed of his release, he wasn’t taken aback. Jihoon also spoke about Jungkook, stating, “After witnessing his genius, I realized I wouldn’t be able to achieve that skill level.” This realization made his departure from BigHit somewhat easier to digest.

[INT] What does it take to become BTS according to former trainees [Part 2]

Hwan Jihwan shared a similar sentiment. He believed that since BigHit primarily focused on his vocal training, he might not have been considered for BTS. Instead, he might have been slotted for another group the agency had in mind. When BTS finally debuted, Jihwan left, presuming BigHit was channeling all its resources towards BTS.

BTS’ reactions to their departure

One of the most touching moments from the interview was when Jihoon recounted the members’ reactions to their departure. He shared a poignant memory of RM. Despite Jihoon keeping his departure under wraps, RM somehow found out. During a dance practice, RM approached Jihoon, asking if he was leaving. The two had shared a close bond during Jihoon‘s one-year stint at BigHit. RM was visibly upset upon hearing the news, as he had already bid farewell to many trainee friends. Given their close friendship, Jihoon‘s departure was particularly heart-wrenching for RM.

Similarly, Jihwan mentioned that upon hearing his departure news, many of his trainee friends, including some original BTS members, comforted him. While the idol life might not have been in the cards for Jihoon and Jihwan, they have since carved out successful careers. Jihwan is now a vocal trainer at renowned institutions, and Jihoon has made a name for himself as a fitness trainer. 

Their stories serve as a testament to the unpredictable nature of the entertainment industry, where dreams might diverge, but new paths can always be forged. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These two missed out on the opportunity of a lifetime, but they’re not salty about it. They have only nice things to say about BTS. Source: YouTube/@KOREANOWyna.

Contrary to prior reports suggesting that all seven members of BTS had already signed new deals with BigHit Music, it has now been confirmed that the renewals are still in progress. BigHit Music’s board passed a resolution to renew these contracts individually, taking into account each member’s unique circumstances.

Kim Hyeyoung of Daol Investment & Securities Co. Ltd. says, “The first contract renewal of BTS in 2018 totaled 7 billion KRW (5.2 million USD). Considering the previous renewal, the down payment is estimated to be over 21 billion KRW (15.65 million USD).” The terms of the members’ new deals remain under wraps, but industry speculations suggest a tenure of around five years, inclusive of the military service period.

BigHit, HYBE on the renewal process

BTS‘ financial trajectory has been impressive. Forbes reported in 2020 that the group’s cumulative earnings stood at 50 million USD. This figure surged to 150 million USD before HYBE’s then-CEO, Bang Si-hyuk, took the company public in October 2020. Given BTS‘ substantial contribution to HYBE’s revenue, accurate communication regarding their renewals is crucial to avoid potential legal ramifications.

BTS‘ rise has been meteoric from their debut in 2013 to their current superstardom. They have consistently ranked high on international music charts, set records at major U.S. award shows, and even delivered speeches at the United Nations. Their influence extends beyond music with their campaigns for UNICEF. Incidentally, BigHit Music will donate 1 billion KRW (752,000 USD) to UNICEF to celebrate the group’s commitment to the agency.

HYBE recently commented on the renewal process: “With this renewal, we aim to see BTS as a whole by 2025. We are committed to supporting the artists in every possible way to elevate BTS’ reputation further.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Contrary to previous reports, the BTS members haven’t signed new deals yet. Source: Weverse.

BTS’ V took the music scene by storm when he dropped his solo album Layover on September 8. Not only did that day mark his debut as a soloist, but it was also then that his agency made an important announcement. BigHit Music told fans that V is scheduled to hold an offline fan meeting on October 14. The event promises ARMYs some face time with the singer, special performances, and more.

Where will V hold the fan meeting?

To be part of this grand event, fans had to participate in a raffle by purchasing at least one copy of Layover. The raffle took place from September 8 to September 13, and the lucky winners were notified on September 20. With 1400 ARMYs winning the raffle, it’s evident that the venue had to be spacious enough to accommodate them all.

The buzz on social media was palpable as the winners shared their excitement. Some even revealed the location of the event. V will hold the fan meeting at an open-air venue with breathtaking vistas. This scenic venue is the Peace Amphitheater at the Global Campus of Kyung Hee University, one of South Korea’s top ten tertiary institutions. (Fun fact: Former South Korean president Moon Jae-in is a Kyung Hee University alum.)

Located in Yongin, near Suwon, Kyung Hee University’s Global Campus was established in 1979, 25 years after the Seoul Campus was built. The Global Campus is grander than its Seoul counterpart. To get there, take an hour and a half ride on the yellow Bundang Line to Yeongtong Station from Seoul. The Peace Amphitheater, where V will meet his fans, is at the far end of the university’s 510-acre grounds. The journey might be long, but the destination, with its stunning architecture and views, is worth every step.

A sought-after spot

The Peace Amphitheater isn’t new to the limelight. Its majestic visuals have made it a sought-after spot for entertainment events. Renowned actors like Park Bo Gum—a close friend of V’s—and Soong Joong Ki have held fan meetings there. Festivals have also been held at the Peace Amphitheater, which means K-pop groups like Highlight and MAMAMOO have performed there. Finally, it was the backdrop of BLACKPINK’s “As If It’s Your Last” music video and the K-drama Beautiful Love, Wonderful Life.

Many ARMYs have remarked that the venue’s design is reminiscent of Ancient Greece, sparking hopes that V might go with a similar theme for the event. While the Kyung Hee University campus is generally open to the public, BigHit Music issued a strict advisory against going there to see V unless you’re a raffle winner. The agency probably wants to avoid a crowd crush similar to what happened in Itaewon last year.

This fan meeting promises to be an unforgettable experience for some lucky ARMYs. With an iconic venue, special performances, and the chance to interact with V, it’s an event that attendees will remember for years to come. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: V couldn’t have picked a nicer venue than this. Sources: Korean Dramaland and SBS.