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Disney+ Announces ‘BTS Monuments: Beyond the Stars’ Documentary

Disney+ has officially announced the release of a new documentary titled BTS Monuments: Beyond the Stars. According to the streamer, this documentary is set to premiere in December 2023. This exciting revelation has sent waves of anticipation among the BTS fandom, known as the ARMY. The documentary promises to delve deep into the journey of BTS, showcasing their evolution from their early days to their current global stardom. 

BTS Monuments: Beyond The Stars contains the amazing journey of ’21st-century pop icon’ BTS. It stimulates the curiosity of the public as well as global fans who have been watching their growth, raising expectations. You can see the world of music and videos that BTS has shown over the past 9 years, as well as the daily lives and thoughts of the members preparing for the second act,” Disney+ shared in their official synopsis.

Interestingly, the members had teased this documentary with a short film released on November 30, 2022. With the group currently on a hiatus and some members serving their mandatory military service, this documentary is a much-awaited, welcome treat for ARMY who have been yearning for more content from their beloved idols.

BTS Monuments: Beyond The Star | Coming Soon | DisneyPlus Hotstar

Disney+ has been a significant platform

Disney+ has been a significant platform for BTS content, having previously streamed documentaries like BTS: Permission To Dance and In The Soop: Friendcation. This new documentary is expected to provide fans with insights and moments that have never been shared anywhere before. ARMY’s excitement is palpable, with many expressing their eagerness on social media.

Additionally, documentaries focusing on individual BTS members, such as j-hope IN THE BOX and SUGA: Road to D-DAY have been released. It’s also confirmed that Jimin’s solo documentary will premiere in October 2023. These documentaries provide a closer look at the members’ lives beyond their musical careers. Furthermore, a full-length drama series titled Youth is also in the pipeline. This series will feature seven actors, each portraying a BTS member.

BTS Monuments: Beyond the Stars isn’t just another documentary; it’s a testament to the legacy of the superstar septet. With its release, ARMY will get a chance to celebrate the group’s amazing journey and achievements. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The septet teased this documentary in a video that was released almost one year ago. Source: YouTube/@hotstarOfficial.

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Did You Know EXO’s Chanyeol is Friends With a ‘One Piece’ Star?

Mackenyu Arata, the Japanese actor, has been in the limelight for quite some time. Recently, he’s been making international headlines for portraying Roronoa Zoro in the new live-action adaptation of One Piece. Before this iconic role, he was famous for his performances in films like Chihayafuru, Peach Girl, and Tokyo Ghoul S.

@kumo_sora3

#chanyeol friend, #mackenyu @EXO #exo

♬ original sound – kumo_sora – kumo_sora

However, for K-pop fans, Mackenyu might ring a bell for a different reason. He shares a close bond with EXO’s Chanyeol. Their friendship first came into the public eye approximately four years ago, when they started following each other on Instagram. Not long after, they began sharing snapshots of themselves on social media, giving fans a glimpse into their camaraderie. Their bond is so strong that during a concert in 2018, Chanyeol, amidst thousands of fans, singled out Mackenyu, leading to the actor joyfully waving at the crowd.

Moreover, when Chanyeol spots Mackenyu lurking online during his live broadcasts, he greets him. For Mackenyu’s part, he has mentioned Chanyeol and another EXO member, D.O., in interviews. He shared that they, along with other friends, celebrated Christmas together.

@istrilevi24

Mackenyu with EXO and Chanyeol 💪😻 #mackenyuarata #mackenyu #aratamackenyu #exo #exol #chanyeol #kpop #onepieceliveaction #japan #actor

♬ original sound – ~

What does Mackenyu call Chanyeol?

Mackenyu refers to Chanyeol as his “best friend from Seoul.” He even uses the honorific “hyung,” a term younger Korean males use to address older males. A translated excerpt from Mackenyu’s fan club blog reads, “Cafe & Lunch with Hyung! My favorite kind brother! I’m happy to be surrounded with such hyungs!” This post also featured a picture of him with Chanyeol.

Beyond Chanyeol and D.O., Mackenyu has forged friendships with other EXO members, showing how the worlds of Japanese cinema and K-pop beautifully intertwine.

For casual fans and hardcore stans alike, this friendship between EXO’s Chanyeol and Mackenyu is a delightful intersection of two entertainment worlds. Their closeness is a testament to the ability of film and music to bring people together, transcending borders. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Chanyeol recently covered Mint magazine. Source: Twitter/@YUMIDADAGUAI.

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Monsta X’s Hyungwon and Seventeen’s Jeonghan Show Off Their Friendship in ‘Mr. Chae the Castaway’

Fans of K-pop boy groups SEVENTEEN and MONSTA X knew how close the two acts are, with many of its members even hanging out together in their free times. And recently, MONSTA X’s Hyungwon and SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan gave fans a glimpse of their tight bond in the web series Mr. Chae the Castaway. 

 

On Friday, September 15, Hyungwon’s web series featured Jeonghan as its guest for the third episode. For the first two episodes of Mr. Chae the Castaway, the MONSTA X singer has his relatives as his guests, making Jeonghan the first idol to appear in the show. 

“It’d be sad if other people came before me,” the SEVENTEEN vocalist said. 

Jeonghan in Hyungwon’s Mr. Chae the Castaway

Even at the start of the episode, the close bond between the two was already evident. When asked by Hyungwon if there’s anything he’d like to eat, Jeonghan said that he only needs to see his hyung

Both idols also said that they really care a lot for each other that they’d come running if the other called them. 

One of the scenes that really delighted fans was when Hyungwon was protecting the SEVENTEEN member while driving and Jeonghan held his hands. 

Interestingly, Jeonghan’s antics also shone through as he persuaded Hyungwon to try the tallest bungee jumping in South Korea. In all of his idol career, Hyungwon said that he has never tried doing scary activities like that. But he pushed through as the younger idol promised that he’ll do it with him. 

After that, the two also reminisced about their busy idol lives. Hyungwon even said that as long as Jeonghan got some healing through his show, then it’s alright. 

At one point, the SEVENTEEN member explained that the reason he liked the older idol so much is because they don’t argue when they’re talking. 

Hyungwon and Jeonghan’s friendship over the years

Prior to Jeonghan’s guesting in Mr. Chae the Castaway, his friendship with Hyungwon has been known to their fans. 

In a 2020 show, the SEVENTEEN singer said that Hyungwon is someone he’s comfortable to call at any time. 

Moreover, the two have talked about each other on several accounts. In fact, Jeonghan even quipped that the MONSTA X member is his “one-sided love.” 

Moreover, the two only have praises for each other. “I think of Jeonghan as a very good person. He’s a really nice friend,” Hyungwon said. 

Another way that the two idols bond together is participating in TikTok dance challenges. 

 

And fans of the two idols can rejoice as the Mr. Chae the Castaway episode with Jeoghan has several parts. Its fourth episode, which will see the two napping and preparing for barbeque, will air on September 22.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN’s Jeonghan appears in MONSTA X’s Hyungwon’s ‘Mr Chae the Castaway.’ Credit: Twitter/lifewithoutaplan

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BLACKPINK’S Lisa Rejects YG’s Latest Offer, Group Likely to Go on Hiatus

The K-pop world is buzzing with anticipation and concern as BLACKPINK, one of its most celebrated groups, faces uncertainty regarding its future with YG Entertainment. The girl group, consisting of Jennie, Jisoo, Lisa, and Rosé, has been with the agency since debuting seven years ago. However, recent developments suggest a potential shift in this relationship.

The spotlight is on BLACKPINK member Lisa

BLACKPINK made a meteoric rise in the industry after its debut on August 8, 2016. They quickly gained recognition, following in the footsteps of 2NE1, another iconic group from YG Entertainment. Their debut was so impactful that it feels like just yesterday, even though seven years have passed. With hits like “Whistle,” “Boombayah,” “Ddu-Du Ddu-Du,” and “Lovesick Girls,” they’ve solidified their status as global artists.

Despite their massive success, the relationship between BLACKPINK and YG Entertainment seems to be on shaky ground. Speculations are rife about the group’s contract renewal with the agency. Some believe their upcoming concert at the Gocheok Sky Dome might be their last performance as a complete group. Industry insiders have even hinted at a possible hiatus for the group after their world tour.

The spotlight recently intensified on Lisa, one of the group’s members. An agency in China claimed that Lisa had difficulties fulfilling her schedule due to uncertainties with her YG contract. But YG Entertainment countered this claim, stating her schedule was affected by personal commitments and their ongoing tour, not contract issues. Furthermore, rumors are swirling that Lisa has received lucrative offers from abroad, including her home country, Thailand. Some even say she turned down YG’s second offer, rumored to be worth around 50 billion KRW.

What have the other members said?

The other members of BLACKPINK have dropped hints about their future. Rosé, during a concert in Singapore, assured BLINKs that “BLACKPINK isn’t going anywhere.” But Jennie‘s use of the word “last” in reference to their finale concert at the Gocheok Sky Dome raised eyebrows.

The group’s time with YG Entertainment has been nothing short of spectacular. From their debut showcase in Gangnam to their recent release THE ALBUM topping charts worldwide, BLACKPINK‘s achievements are monumental. Their personal lives, including rumored relationships with other K-pop stars, have also been in the limelight.

As the clock ticks and fans await official announcements, the future of BLACKPINK remains a hot topic in the entertainment industry. Whether all four girls will stay with YG Entertainment or chart a new course, their legacy as K-pop legends is undeniable. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BLINKs everywhere are waiting with bated breath for official word from the girls’ agency regarding their contracts. Source: Instagram/@lalalalisa_m.

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ASTRO Commemorates 3rd Unit Debut Anniversary of Moonbin and Sanha

On Thursday, September 14, ASTRO’s first sub-unit, Moonbin and Sanha, marked their third debut anniversary. And both the ASTRO members and their fans, AROHAs, made sure to celebrate the duo’s milestone.

ASTRO’s leader Jinjin, sent his congratulatory message through the group’s official X (former Twitter) account. Sharing some photos of him with Moonbin and Sanha, he greeted the two, whom he called “little brothers.

Meanwhile, their fellow member and actor Cha Eun Woo also sent a greeting of his own through his Instagram. On his stories, he shared a video clip from Moonbin and Sanha’s fan concert tour.

Moreover, he affectionately referred to the duo as the Ddankong Unit. As the two got it from a mixture of their respective nicknames, with Sanha as “DDana” and Moonbin as “Dalkong.”

For his part, Sanha brought to social media his happiness with this achievement. Sharing a behind the scene clip of him and Moonbin from the filming of the music video of “Madness” MV, the singer simply wrote “Happy 3rd anniversary.” 

Moreover, Sanha has also greeted their unit in June as they celebrated their 1000th day since debut.

Additionally, ASTRO STAFF also made sure to congratulate Sanha and Moonbin. “Eternal strongest unit Ddankong! Congratulations on your third anniversary,” they wrote, alongside more photos of the two. 

All the love for the Moonbin and Sanha

AROHAs, the group’s fandom, were overflowing with emotions upon hearing the members’ greetings.

“To our one & only Ddankong, happy 3rd anniversary. We’ll never thank you enough for allowing us to experience true happiness through your music, talent, and friendship. We’ll make sure your legacy lives on,” one fan affectionately expressed.

Understandably, AROHAs are even more sentimental as this is Sanha’s first time celebrating the duo’s anniversary alone. On April 19, Moonbin passed away at 25 years old. 

Throughout their career, Moonbin and Sanha released a total of three mini albums. First was In and Out in 2020, then Refuge in 2022, and then their third and last EP Incense in 2023.

Before Moonbin’s passing, the Ddankong duo were in the midst of their Diffusion fan concert tour. Following Moonbin’s demise, the duo’s Weverse community has been shut down. But FANTAGIO Music will be releasing a DVD of the unit’s DIFFUSION fan concert tour, and all sales would be donated. 

As for Sanha’s future activities, the singer is set to star in the historical romance film Suunjapbang. Said film will be released on December 16.

Featured image: ASTRO shares a photo of Moonbin and Sanha during the unit’s ‘Diffusion’ tour. Credit:Twitter/ASTRO Staff

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‘Treat Soobin Better’: Fans Call Out Bighit for Alleged Mistreatment of TXT’s Leader

Despite TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s first VMAs win and collaborative track with Brazilian singer Anitta, several fans have called out BIGHIT MUSIC for the label’s alleged “unfair”  treatment towards the group’s leader Soobin.

Using the hashtag #BigHitTreatSoobinBetter, MOAs, TXT’s fandom, have expressed their frustration against the label. For these fans, Soobin has been receiving inadequate lines and reduced screen time for their music videos.

BIGHIT Music’s alleged behavior towards TXT’s Soobin

According to MOAs, Soobin only got two lines in their recent track “Back for More” featuring Anitta. Additionally, they pointed out that the leader only had 16 seconds in total. While this might be normal for other idol groups, MOAs claim that this division isn’t fair for a group that only has five members. 

Soobin is a singer, a dancer, and an extremely talented person. He literally shines on stage. And he has such an incredible voice and falsetto.. It’s time to stop underestimating him and give him more lines,” one fan demanded.

https://twitter.com/dailysoobtonin/status/1702365030275228109

 

As per fans, this alleged mistreatment has been evident even in the group’s earlier releases. Even listing down previous tracks “Good Boy Gone Badand “Sugar Rush Ride.”  

Moreover, MOAs are enraged with how BIGHIT highlights Soobin’s part in the trailer, usually featuring it for teasers. But they’ll later find out that the leader only has a few lines in the official music video. To make matters worse, MOAs are claiming that Soobin barely sang and appeared in their “Do It Like That” collaboration with the Jonas Brothers.

https://twitter.com/dailysoobtonin/status/1702368040879530088

 

Aside from that, MOAs are also upset with how BIGHIT continues to disregard Soobin’s plans to drop a cover. Since 2021, the idol has been expressing his plans to release a cover as a gift for the fans. But even now in 2023, he has not had the opportunity to record one. Which made him the only TXT member without a solo cover, as of writing. 

https://twitter.com/bl5sty/status/1702204801138778377

 

MOAs on raising their concert about TXT

Some fans also clarified that demanding for more Soobin lines and screen time does not equate to hating the other members. As MOAs have said, they are simply appealing their disappointment towards the management and hope their clamors would be heard.

Others also explained that airing their grievances against the management doesn’t make them less of a fan. Instead, it’s a way of showing more solidarity to the actual artists. 

With the unreasonable exposure BIGHIT has been giving the multi-talented leader, MOAs can’t help but express their anger with how the label handles the boy group. While MOAs urge the BIGHIT to treat Soobin better, the label has yet to release a statement on the issue.

Currently, TXT is gearing up for the release of their third full-length album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL. It will be released on October 13.

Featured image: Soobin in a teaser of ‘Season of TXT: Midsummer.’ Credit: Facebook/TXT

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Look: BTS’ V Performs ‘Slow Dancing’ With Yeontan

Kim Taehyung, aka BTS’ V, lit up the stage with his “Slow Dancing performance but surprisingly, his cutest surprise guest Yeontan was the one who stole the show.

On Thursday, September 14, Kim Yeontan, V’s pet Pomeranian, made his official music show debut through his special live appearance on the M Countdown stage. 

The performance started with a photo of Yeontan’s face from the album cover of Layover. Then, it transitioned to an actual video of the pet, leaving fans surprised. Prior to the performance, V had already hinted that he’ll have a special guest for that stage. Throughout V’s performance, Yeontan, affectionately called as Tannie, is seen strolling freely around the stage. 

And the cuteness didn’t even stop there as V also shared a photo of him with Yeontan backstage. What made the day even more special was that V also took home the music win for that day. So for his caption, he quipped that even his beloved Tannie also has a music win under his belt. 

ARMYs love Yeontan 

The clip of Tannie’s debut immediately went viral and garnered a lot of love on social media. Fans, especially ARMYs, can’t get over the duo’s cuteness and gushed over the heartwarming “father and son” moment.

“No one can steal the show from Kim Taehyung except of course Kim Yeontan! Most beautiful son and dad in the world!”, one fan wrote.

 

Others also pointed out how behaved Yeontan is and how fit he is to be a performer. “The way Yeontan  looks directly at the camera! He was born to be a star just like his father,” another stated.

 

More about Tannie

Even before making his stage debut, Tannie has already been widely admired by ARMYs worldwide. The black-and-tan Pomeranian was first introduced to the public in December 2017, during the live broadcast of BTSJin.

Since then, Yeontan has made numerous appearances on the sensational group’s content. In fact, the well-loved dog appeared in behind-the-scenes clips, photoshoots, and even in the BTS: Burn The Stage film.

However, V disclosed some time ago that Tannie is having some health issues. According to the idol, his pet endured heart-related problems and endured two unsuccessful surgeries for it. In a recent guest appearance in Pixd, V shared how much he wants pets to have a longer life. 

With this sad news, fans expected that there’d be fewer chances to see Yeontan’s public appearance again given his sensitive health condition. Moreover, ARMYs are also hoping for the pet’s welfare. 

Which is why many fans are moved that V decided to include Tannie in Layover.  Notably, the singer has previously disclosed how the  pet played a huge part in his solo debut album. Not only was Yeontan the face of his album cover, but V also posed with his pet for some concept photos. 

Featured image: BTS’ V poses with pet Yeontan for ‘Layover’ concept photos. B

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Sibling Duo AKMU To Hold First Concert in Four Years

The K-pop world is excited as the sibling duo AKMU announces their much-anticipated return to the stage. After a four-year hiatus, the group, in collaboration with their agency YG Entertainment, has revealed plans for a three-day musical extravaganza. The event, titled AKMUTOPIA, will take place at the Kyunghee University Grand Peace Palace on November 24, 25, and 26.

This announcement has not only thrilled the group’s dedicated fans but has also piqued the interest of the general public. The significance of these concerts can’t be overstated, as they mark AKMU‘s first live performances in four years.

AKMU made a triumphant comeback

Last August 21, the group made a triumphant comeback with the single album “Love Lee.” The title track of the same name quickly climbed the charts. Come September 6, at 8:00 AM KST, it secured the No. 1 spot on local music charts. This includes Bugs, Flo, Genie, and Melon. It also maintained its leading position on these four charts until at least September 7, 1:00 AM KST.

As of the second week of September, spanning from September 4 to September 10, AKMU‘s “Love Lee” dominated the Instiz Chart Singles Ranking with 29,556 points. For those unfamiliar with the South Korean music scene, the Instiz chart amalgamates various charts used in South Korea to rank music sales. Fans often refer to this chart to determine if their idols have achieved the coveted “All-Kill” status. 

AKMU – ‘Love Lee’ M/V

This is a testament to AKMU‘s popularity and the public’s eagerness for their music. Moreover, the upcoming AKMUTOPIA shows are expected to reflect these sentiments. They will showcase AKMU’s unparalleled talent and deep connection with their fans.

As AKMU prepares to serenade fans with their melodious tunes, the world waits with bated breath for this musical extravaganza. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After their killer comeback, AKMU is gearing up to deliver killer performances at their first series of shows in four years. Source: Twitter/@tenasia_.

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Look: These 2nd Generation Idols Reunite

Fans of 2nd generation K-pop groups were left in awe when several veteran idols got together in a recent event. 

On Tuesday, September 12, Hyosung, a former member of girl group SECRET, shared a photo of her posing with other idols from 2nd generation. 

In the photo, T-ARA’s Eunjung, ex-SISTAR member Bora, former Jewelry member Yewon, and Im Siwan of ZE:A were posing together.

“Thanks to Siwan oppa, it turned into Idol Stars Athletic Competition, memories,” Hyosung captioned her post. “It’s been a long time since I’ve been in the Inkigayo waiting room.”

The impromptu reunion reportedly took place at a movie premiere. 

Fans’ reaction to these 2nd Generation legends

The photos quickly gathered praise online as it’s the latest addition to the rare instances of seeing veteran idols together. 

In February, Bora and Hyosung were also present in Siwan’s fan concert, alongside MBLAQ’s Lee Joon. In addition to them, SNSD’s Sooyoung also showed support for Siwan. 

Following this get-together, fans couldn’t help but reminisce about the era of 2nd generation idols. 

In an online community, fans discussed how the 2nd generation of K-pop was considered the “golden era.”

According to the exchange by netizens, many fans consider that time as the starting point for Hallyu’s global takeover. Others also pointed out how new K-pop fans won’t ever understand how famous these idols were during their peak. As well as the influence they had in shaping the genre, calling all of the artists in the photo as legends. 

Furthermore, fans also praised the visuals of Hyosung, Eunjung, Bora, Yewon, and Siwan. Some were talking about how they didn’t age.

Many also felt nostalgic seeing the artists, with some saying that it reminded them of old variety shows. There were also comments from some fans wishing for a comeback and more reunions. 

Moreover, a huge chunk of the comments from the online community highlighted the bond between these stars. For them, it’s a testament to the difference in generations among K-pop idols as groups before had more freedom forming friendships among each other. 

Several fans were claiming that idols then were more “free” when it comes to hanging out with other idols, as well as in expressing their thoughts.

Featured image: T-ARA’s Eunjung, SISTAR’s Bora, Jewelry’s Yewon, Secret’s Hyosung, and ZE:A’s Siwan pose for a photo. Credit: Instagram/Hyosung

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Red Velvet’s Seulgi Insists Group’s Bond Is Stronger Than Ever

In the world of K-pop, where rumors are as common as chart-topping hits, Seulgi of the group Red Velvet has taken a stand. On September 12, Kang Seul-gi, widely known by her stage name “Seulgi,” addressed the whispers of discord among the five-member girl group.

Seulgi speaks

The rumor mills had been buzzing, with netizens suggesting the Red Velvet members don’t genuinely have a close relationship. Fuel was added to the fire when a few members were notably absent from the audience of Rebecca, the first musical Red Velvet‘s Wendy starred in. Seulgi, however, quickly quashed such allegations by taking to Bubble, a popular fan messaging app in South Korea.

Highlighting the group’s unity, Seulgi mentioned how Irene, their leader, is always at the forefront when it comes to supporting any member. She emphasized Irene‘s presence at several of Wendy’s shows, showing her support for Wendy‘s new solo venture as the lead in Rebecca. Seulgi humorously added, “Irene is the first when it comes to birthday wishes. We all wish each other happy birthday, but because we don’t make it obvious, there are people who cast doubt on our relationship.”

While Wendy‘s musical debut was a significant milestone in her solo career, netizens seemed more focused on the perceived rift between Red Velvet members. Seulgi, who had launched her debut EP titled 28 Reasons in October 2022, shed light on a possible reason for the misunderstanding. She jovially mentioned, “It’s because we’re a group of introverts.”

SEULGI 슬기 ’28 Reasons’ MV

They’ve had each other’s backs

Further cementing their unity, Red Velvet members Joy and Yeri expressed support for Wendy‘s musical debut through heartfelt Instagram posts. These posts showed the duo attending one of her shows, cheering for their bandmate.

The members’ support for one another isn’t a new phenomenon. From sending food trucks to each other’s filming locations, showcasing their camaraderie on social media, to surprising each other on set, the five members have consistently had each other’s backs.

That said, it’s worth noting that Irene reportedly didn’t renew her SM Entertainment deal. What that means for the group’s future remains to be seen. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Seulgi was quick to shut down rumors of discord between the Red Velvet members. Source: Twitter/@holyizhuo.

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