Category: K-POP ARTISTS

The K-pop world is no stranger to rumors, especially when it involves the personal lives of its stars. Recently, the rumor mill has been buzzing with whispers about BLACKPINK’s Lisa and her alleged romantic relationship with Frédéric Arnault. The speculations have gained more traction as the duo was spotted together in Thailand.

According to a report by a Thai media outlet, Lisa, the globally renowned BLACKPINK member, was seen enjoying a day out on the Chao Phraya River. But what caught the reporters’ attention was the presence of Frédéric Arnault, the CEO of TAG Heuer. The report detailed that the rumored couple wasn’t alone. Lisa’s parents were also present, adding a familial touch to the outing.

This isn’t the first time Lisa and Frédéric have been spotted together, but this recent sighting in Lisa’s home country has certainly added fuel to the fire. Their day out on the river seemed relaxed, with both of them appearing comfortable in each other’s company. The presence of Lisa’s parents suggests a close bond between the two, though neither has confirmed any romantic relationship.

Lisa and her beau have been busy

Both Lisa and Frédéric have been quite busy in their respective careers. Lisa, with her BLACKPINK commitments and solo projects, and Frédéric, with his role as CEO of TAG Heuer, have been making headlines individually. Lisa, for her part, spent the better part of 2023 touring the world with her bandmates. Their Born Pink World Tour ends on September 17 after more than 60 shows worldwide. However, their recent appearances together have shifted the focus to their rumored relationship.

While BLACKPINK’s fans (also known as BLINKs) and reporters continue to speculate, it’s essential to remember the importance of privacy and respect for individuals’ personal lives. Only time will tell whether they’re friends or there’s something more between them. Until they confirm the rumors, fans can only hope for the best for their girl and the TAG Heuer CEO. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Back in May, Frederic and Lisa were photographed together at an event alongside BTS’ V and English supermodel Naomi Campbell. Source: Twitter/@viraltakes.

Grid Entertainment’s multinational boy group POW has finally taken its first step into the limelight with “Favorite.” This song, released before their official debut on October 11, marks the beginning of their highly-anticipated journey in the music industry.

The five members of POW—Dongyeon, Hong, Hyunbin, Jungbin, and Yorch—recently held a presscon in Seoul. There, the group introduced themselves and their music to the world. “We’re excited and nervous to meet our fans a month earlier,” expressed Hyunbin. “We’ll grow and improve as we head toward our debut, so please look forward to our journey.” Echoing his sentiments, Thai actor-singer Yorch stated, “We’ve waited a long time for this moment. We’ll give it our best shot.”

The band’s name, POW, isn’t just a catchy moniker. As the leader Jungbin explained, it represents their goal to “blow up the K-pop scene with their innovative and fun energy.” Their single “Favorite” encapsulates this vision. It’s a pop-punk dance tune that exudes innocent, youthful vigor. The lyrics convey the exhilaration of being in love. Accompanying it is a music video inspired by European youth culture. Hyunbin described it as “portraying the dreamlike, beautiful energy of youth our age,” with shots of the picturesque German countryside.

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ M/V

There’s more to come from POW

As “Favorite” sets the stage for POW‘s official debut, fans can also anticipate an album. Dongyeon revealed that their upcoming EP would encompass a range of concepts, “from first love to spirits of boyhood.”

POW‘s inception has garnered international attention, primarily because they’re the first boy group to be launched by Grid Entertainment. This label is a subsidiary of 131 Label, home to rapper-singer B.I. Adding to their mystique is Yorch‘s history. He previously trained under BTS‘ company, BigHit Music. He was also part of the agency’s ill-fated pre-debut team, called Trainee A. Reflecting on his journey, Yorch said, “I felt lost and wanted to rest when I returned to Thailand. I was discouraged and wanted to give up on becoming a K-pop artist.” However, after several meetings with Grid’s CEO, and bonding with the other members, he joined POW.

The band’s strength, as emphasized by the members, lies in their teamwork. Each member brings a unique flair to the group, but together, they create a beautiful synergy. They look up to the group SEVENTEEN. In fact, Jungbin said, “SEVENTEEN shows a powerful energy onstage. We also hope to become a group that could share bright and encouraging energy.” – K-Pop News Writer

POW (파우) ‘Favorite’ LYRIC VIDEO

Featured Image: Their energy is reflected in their lyric video. Source: YouTube/@POW_Official.

In a shocking turn of events, Phunky Studios, the production company behind the MBC survival show Fantasy Boys, has taken legal action against Yoo Junwon. The suit comes after the trainee’s sudden exit from the group, right on the cusp of his debut. The Seoul Central District Court has confirmed receipt of the case, with the production company demanding a staggering 3 billion KRW in damages.

Yoo Junwon‘s journey in the limelight began when he clinched first place on the show. This victory paved the way for his inclusion in the debut group. However, his happiness was short-lived. Just a month before the group’s much-anticipated launch, the budding idol suddenly decided to leave.

Yoo Junwon had troublesome parents

PocketDol Studio, responsible for managing the group, shed light on the behind-the-scenes turmoil. They revealed that they and Yoo Junwon’s parents had engaged in extensive contract discussions, revisiting the terms over ten times. “Our company discussed the contract with him and his parents over ten times immediately after the program ended. Despite the contract being written according to the standard terms recommended by the Fair Trade Commission, his parents requested a revision of the contract,” they said. The bone of contention? An increased profit distribution rate, justified by Yoo Junwon‘s first-place finish in the program’s voting compared to other members.

The studio further elaborated, “If we adjust the profit distribution rate differently for members based on the final voting rank, there could be an issue of fairness. We explained sufficiently every time why we couldn’t do that. However, Yoo Junwon‘s parents unauthorizedly took Yoo Junwon out twice and finally notified that he would not join the team.”

Fantasy Boys remains undeterred

Despite the void left by its first-place winner, Fantasy Boys remains undeterred. The group is still on track to make its official debut on September 21 KST, featuring the remaining 11 members. Fans can hardly wait for their debut album, NEW TOMORROW, set to drop on September 16.

In K-pop, controversies aren’t unusual. However, this lawsuit’s magnitude and its circumstances sent shockwaves throughout the industry. As the legal battle begins, fans and industry insiders alike are hoping for a resolution that serves the best interests of all involved. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Junwon went from center to defendant real quick. Source: Twitter/@nugubgs_.