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Fans Raise Concern as YG Entertainment Delays Debut of New Girl Group BABYMONSTER

BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

Fans of upcoming rookie girl group BABYMONSTER might have to wait a little longer as YG Entertainment seemingly appeared to have delayed the group’s debut, which was initially set for September. 

On Saturday, September 23, Naver reported that YG Entertainment is delaying the debut of BABYMONSTER due to “quality enhancement.” Moreover, the group’s debut song will reportedly fall under the strong hip–hop genre. Hence, the agency is reportedly putting more effort into the song. 

Initially, YG Entertainment confirmed in July that their new girl group will debut in September. At the time, the agency shared that the members were already working on the song’s choreography and preparing for the filming of the music video. 

However, with September already drawing to a close, the agency has yet to release teasers or announcements related to BABYMONSTER’s debut. As of writing, the label also didn’t provide an update on the situation. 

Understandably, this delay has left many fans disappointed as they have been anticipating BABYMONSTER’s debut since the start of 2023. Still, most fans remain patient and hopeful with the final unveiling of the group.

What we know so far about BABYMONSTER

Composed of Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Haram, Rora, and Chiquita, the seven-member girl group were formed through YG Entertainment’s survival show Last Evaluation.

Initially, only five members were supposed to debut. But the agency’s founder Yang Si Hyuk listened to the viewers’ opinions of having all the seven members take part in the group.

Interestingly, the seven members came from various countries. Ahyeon, Haram and Rora are the South Korean members of the group. Meanwhile, members Asa and Ruka are from Japan. Lastly, Thai members Pharita and Chiquita completed the lineup.

Even before making their debut, BABYMONSTER had already earned recognition from K-pop fans due to their “all-rounder” skills. All eight of their Last Evaluation episodes on Youtube have surpassed eight millions views each. 

In May, BABYMONSTER teased the fans with their pre-debut track “DREAM.” Within four months of its release, the music video for the track has already garnered over 50 million views.

Fans’ assumptions over YG’s moves

While fans’ anticipation for the group’s debut becomes higher, the uncertainty gets more extreme as well. With the announcement of the delay, fans cannot help but raise assumptions over YG Entertainment’s moves.

Some fans have speculated that the group’s debut was delayed due to one of its members leaving. Eagle-eyed fans have pointed out that Ahyeon has been missing from the group’s social media content with her last video posted in July.

The group was also seen attending BLACKPINK’s Born Pink finale concert in Seoul, but only six members were present. Based on the photos circulating online, Ahyeon wasn’t in attendance.

With Ahyeon’s absence and the label keeping mum about it, fans continue to worry for the singer. Out of all the members, Ahyeon is considered as one with the most public recognition as she went viral for her cover of Charlie Puth’s “Dangerously.”

On the other hand, some fans are speculating that YG Entertainment is delaying BABYMONSTER’s debut due to their unsettled contract negotiations with the label’s other girl group BLACKPINK. 

Currently, the worldwide sensation superstars are in talks with the agency as their seven-year contract has expired in 2023. Although there are rumors of the members leaving the agency, YG Entertainment remains firm that there’s no final decision yet. 

 

BABYMONSTER is set to be YG Entertainment’s first girl group in about seven years, after BLACKPINK’s debut in 2015.

Featured image: BABYMONSTER updates fans with a group picture. Credit: Instagram/BABYMONSTER

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Lee Sang Yeob to Marry Non-celebrity Girlfriend

Lee Sang Yeob updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Lee Sang Yeob

South Korean actor Lee Sang Yeob  is set to marry his non-celebrity fiancée in March 2024. 

On Monday, September 25, Korean outlet Sports Seoul reported that the Eve star will tie the knot with his non-celebrity girlfriend. Moreover, the outlet also included in the report that the actor’s fiancée is younger than him and is known for her beautiful visuals. 

Additionally, the report claimed that the actor initially kept his relationship private since his partner is not a public individual, but has been slowly opening up and letting those around him know of his marriage plans. 

In response to the wedding rumors, Sang Yeob’s agency UB Management Group released a statement to confirm the news. 

“It is true that Lee Sang Yeob is currently preparing for a wedding with his non-celebrity bride-to-be in March of next year,” the label said. 

However, UB Management Group emphasized that the couple have just started their preparations for the wedding. Hence, the agency couldn’t provide more details about the couple’s upcoming marriage. But they assured the media and fans that they’ll notify the public once a specific schedule has been confirmed. 

Following the news, fans on social media have expressed their happiness for the actor. Many of his supporters are congratulating him, while others are wishing for his happiness with his partner. 

The career of Lee Sang Yeob

Sang Yeob made his acting debut in the 2007 series A Happy Woman. Since then, he starred on several hit dramas including The Innocent Man, Jang Ok-jung, Living by Love, and A Little Love Never Hurts. Some of his recent works include While You Were Sleeping, Once Again, Sh**ting Stars, Eve, and My Lovely Boxer. 

The 40-year-old actor also has several acting awards under his belt. Some of his award-winning performances are in Love Affairs in the Afternoon, On the Verge of Insanity, and Good Acting. 

Aside from acting, Sang Yeob also showed his comedic chops in several variety shows. He previously appeared in Law of the Jungle in Samoa, Prison Life of Fools, Three Idiots, and Sixth Sense.

Featured image: Lee Sang Yeob updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Sang Yeob

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IVE’s Jang Won Young Debuts Blond Hair in ‘Either Way’ Concept Photos

IVE’s Jang Wonyoung recently surprised fans by debuting a new blond hairstyle in concept photos for their upcoming comeback with the 1st EP album ‘I’VE MINE’. The release of individual teaser videos was followed by these striking ‘Either Way’ concept photos of Wonyoung, instantly sparking excitement among fans worldwide.

Jang Won Young Unveils Blond Hair in New IVE Concept Photos

Jang Wonyoung’s blond hair accentuated her already flawless and elegant facial features, creating quite a buzz in the K-pop community. Her captivating gaze into the camera added to the anticipation surrounding IVE’s upcoming album, as fans eagerly await the new story that the group will convey through their music.

The change in Wonyoung’s hairstyle not only showcases her versatility but also adds an intriguing element to IVE’s overall concept for their upcoming release, further piquing the curiosity of fans and raising expectations for what’s to come.

It’s a welcome change but not one that DIVEs were expecting. After all, Jang Won Young had previously made it clear that she was not interested in changing her hairstyle. One fan tried to convince the idol during IVE’s recent performance at KCON LA 2023. At first, Wonyoung seemed to appreciate the fan’s fake magazine featuring a Photoshopped image of the idol with blond hair. However, she later made her feelings clear when she encountered the DIVE during the concert.

Jang Wonyoung got her start when she placed first in the Mnet girl group survival show “Produce 101”. She debuted as a member of Iz*One in 2018 but the group disbanded on April 29, 2021. Wonyoung would get her second chance at superstardom when she became a part of IVE.

IVE is currently preparing for their first mini album ‘I’VE MINE’ which is set for release next year. The girl group recently dropped the teaser video for the title track “Either Way”. In the meantime, the new EP is set for release on October 13, 2023.

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GF Entertainment Apologizes To Muslim Community for KINGDOM’s Latest Album Art

GF Entertainment issues an apology addressed to the Muslim community following backlash to KINGDOM's new album art

KINGDOM’s agency, GF Entertainment, has decided to recall the albums for their upcoming 7th EP ‘History of KINGDOM Part VII: JAHAN’ due to a controversy surrounding its original design. The album cover received immediate criticism for its resemblance to the Quran’s cover upon its release. In response to the backlash, GF Entertainment has taken the step to address the issue and apologize to the Muslim community. The agency also announced their intention to recall the albums with the offending artwork.

KINGDOM Recalls New EP Pre-Orders Following Backlash

On September 25, GF Entertainment issued an official apology about KINGDOM’s upcoming mini album.

“We’ve recently received feedback concerning the cover of KINGDOM’s 7th mini album, which was originally scheduled for pre-order on the 21st. It has been pointed out that the design bears some resemblance to the Islamic scripture,” the statement read.

“KINGDOM is a group that strives to showcase the richness of world cultures through K-pop, with a strong commitment to promoting cultural diversity and coexistence. We deeply regret that this controversy has arisen due to our lack of awareness and oversight, and we acknowledge our shortcomings in this matter. We offer our sincere apologies to the Muslim community and anyone else who may have felt discomforted by this situation,” it continues.

The statement further states that the company is “taking steps to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future.” It then confirms that the agency will “recall and discard all 70,000 copies of the initial album edition and proceed with a reissue.”

Pre-orders for KINGDOM’s new album were initially set for September 21. However, it will now recommence on September 26, 2023. Needless to say, the decision reflects the agency’s commitment to respecting cultural sensitivities and avoiding any unintentional offense.

KINGDOM’s 7th EP is titled ‘History of KINGDOM Part VII: JAHAN’. The upcoming album is expected to be released on October 18, 2023.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NU’EST Members Reunite For the 1st Time After Disbandment

All five members of NU'EST gathered together for a dinner. Credit: X/Hwang Min Hyun

Drought is over,  L.O.Λ.! All five members of NU’EST had a reunion for the first time since the group disbanded in March 2022. 

On Saturday, September 23, NU’EST members Hwang Min Hyun, Baekho, Ren, Aron, and JR, gathered for a casual dinner. All members also made sure to share the precious moments on their personal Instagram accounts as well.

On his personal X (formerly Twitter) account, Min Hyun also shared some details about their get-together. In the translated post, he told fans: “It’s been a while since we met and we talked a lot!”

When one fan asked if they had a good time, the singer answered:  “Everyone was doing well!”

 

Aside from Min Hyun, Aron also opened up to fans about the group’s get-together. 

Fans’ reactions

Fans, especially the group’s fandom L.O.Λ (pronounced as LOVE), were understandably sentimental upon seeing the photos of the group. What made it more special is that it was the first public appearance of all the five  members together since their disbandment in March 2022.

“NU’EST reunion got me in tears, I am extra sensitive today,” one wrote.

 

Given that NU’EST disbanded over a year ago, fans are delighted to see that the members still have a close bond.

Where are the NU’EST members now?

For those unaware, NU’EST debuted in 2012 under Pledis Entertainment, which is now a sub-label of HYBE CORP. 

In 2022, the group’s 10-year contract with the agency was no longer renewed. Which left NU’EST with no choice but to discontinue group activities. 

Since then, the members have been embarking on their solo journeys.

Baekho, who decided to stay with PLEDIS, was the first member to debut as a soloist. In October 2022, he dropped his mini album Absolute Zero with the title track “No Rules.” In August 2023, he made his comeback with the single “Elevator.”

Meanwhile, Min Hyun, who is the only member alongside Baekho to stay with their previous agency, also made his solo debut with his first mini album Truth or Lie in February 2023. Apart from that, he also focused on his acting career, having starred in various dramas including Alchemy of Souls, its second season Light and Shadow, and the recently concluded My Lovely Liar.

Their fellow member Ren, worked on a few musicals since NU’EST’s disbandment. In June 2023, he released his first solo mini-album Ren’dezvous under his new agency, Big Planet Made. Said agency is home to artists Soyou, Lee Mu-Jin, and the trio Viviz.

On the other hand, JR, whose real name is Kim Jong Hyun, also embarked on his solo journey as an artist by dropping his first mini album MERIDIEM in November 2022. Additionally, he also starred in two dramas: Sound Candy and It Was Spring in 2023.

Lastly, the group’s oldest member Aron, made his solo debut in June 2023 with the album Time Difference. In May, the singer held his first Asia tour SPECTRUM OF,  in celebration of his birthday in the same month.

Featured image: All five members of NU’EST gathered together for a dinner. Credit: Instagram/Hwang Min Hyun

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Look: Block B Gets Together Ahead of P.O.’s Military Discharge

All seven members of BLOCK B had a mini-reunion. Credit: Instagram/Park Kyung

Block B’s youngest member P.O. is set to get discharged from his mandatory military service soon. With much excitement, his Block B brothers made sure to get together and celebrate this feat.

On Saturday, September 23, Park Kyung shared a photo of all seven members’ reunion for a celebratory meal through his personal Instagram account. In the caption, he wrote:“Our youngest is going to be discharged soon.”

P.O., who enlisted back on March 28, 2022, will officially be discharged on September 27, 2023. Interestingly, P.O. is the last member to complete his service as Zico, Taeil, B-Bomb, Jaehyo, U-Kwon and Park Kyung were discharged from duty in the previous years.

OT7: Fans’ excitement for the group

With all the seven members now done with their military service, fans took to social media their excitement upon seeing all seven Block B members reunite.

 

Others, meanwhile, are already looking forward to the group’s future activities, especially their much-awaited OT7 comeback. 

https://twitter.com/ReVeluv_OT5/status/1705693119394767140

More about Block B

In 2011, the seven-member boy group debuted under Stardom Entertainment. But in August 203, they moved to another agency, Seven Seasons, after a legal dispute with their initial label. 

Since then, BLOCK B has released numerous hits including “Nilili Mambo,” “HER,” “Very Good,” “Toy,” and “Jackpot.”

However, in 2018, the group’s leader Zico left the company and established his own label, KOZ Entertainment. Then, he gained popularity as a solo artist with his hit tracks like “Any Song,” and“Okey Dokey. One of his most viral song is  the Street Man Fighter single “New Thing.”

In 2021, P.O. also parted ways with Seven Seasons after the expiration of his contract. Shortly after, he signed with a new label Artist Company. 

Meanwhile, members Jaehyo, B-Bomb and U-Kwon did not renew their contracts with the agency as well after its expiration in January 2023. As of writing, only Taeil and Park Kyung are under Seven Seasons.

With the group’s current set-up and enlistment hiatus, Block B has not released new music in more than five years. They had their last full-group comeback in 2018 with the album Re: MONTAGE.

Featured image: All seven members of BLOCK B had a mini-reunion. Credit: Instagram/Park Kyung

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Look: Rowoon, Cho Yi Hyun at ‘The Matchmaker’ Script Reading

Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun will lead the series 'The Matchmaker.' Credit: Twitter/KBS Drama

KBS2 has shared photos from the script reading of its upcoming historical romantic drama The Matchmaker starring Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun. 

What we know so far about The Matchmaker

Set in the Joseon dynasty, the series will follow the lead cast members as they struggle to marry off the young maidens in their town. 

Rowoon will play Shim Jung Woo, a brilliant scholar who was the youngest person to pass the Civil Service Exam. However, his life was turned upside down when his bride, a princess, suddenly died during their wedding ceremony.  

Meanwhile, Cho Yi Hyun will portray Jung Soon Deok, a daughter-in-law of the first vice-premiere’s family. But, she also pretends as Mrs. Yeo Joo to serve as a matchmaker in Hanyang City. 

The two will be joined by Park Ji Young as the powerful Mrs. Park and Jo Han Chul as the King. Other cast members also include Jung Shin Hye and Park Ji Won.  

In a statement, the producers of The Matchmaker promised the viewers that it will bring “comfortable laughter.” Additionally, they shared that the series will be “enjoyed by people of all ages and genders.” 

“It’s a unique historical rom-com that will transform the vibes of late fall when the cold wind begins to blow into heart-fluttering excitement,” they added. 

The Matchmaker is set to premiere on October 30. 

Actor Rowoon

The announcement about the premiere date of The Matchmaker came days after lead star Rowoon announced his departure from K-pop boy group SF9. 

On September 18, Rowoon announced that he’s stepping back from his role as member of SF9, his group of seven years. Additionally, he explained that he’d rather focus on his acting career since he’s having a hard time juggling both. 

Since Rowoon’s announcement, only leader Youngbin has spoken about it. He said that he’s “conflicted” about Rowoon’s exit but asked their fans to continue to support his former bandmate. 

Currently, Rowoon stars in the fantasy-romance series Destined With You alongside Jo Bo Ah. Moreover, he also made a special guest appearance in the Netflix series A Time Called You. 

The 27- year-old is best known for starring in Extraordinary You, The King’s Affection, and Tomorrow.

Featured image: Rowoon and Cho Yi Hyun will lead the series ‘The Matchmaker.’ Credit: Twitter/KBS Drama

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jungkook to Release Digital Single, ‘3D (feat. Jack Harlow)’

BTS‘ golden maknae, Jungkook, is set to drop a new digital single, “3D (feat. Jack Harlow),” on September 29, 2023. BigHit Music, in their official press release, described the song as a “Pop/R&B track with clever expressions of feelings toward an unattainable person from the perspectives of first, second, and third dimensions.” The agency added that fans can expect Jungkook to showcase “an even more mature side” of himself in this release. Jack Harlow, known for his unique rap style, has lent his voice to the track, adding a distinct flavor.

This release follows Jungkook‘s summer smash, “Seven (feat. Latto).” It left an indelible mark in pop-culture history and showcased the depth of Jungkook‘s artistry. Given his previous single’s success, fans eagerly await the release of “3D (feat. Jack Harlow).”

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘3D’ Hero Film 01

The buzz around this single began when Jungkook gave a significant hint at the 2023 Global Citizen Music Festival in New York City. During the rehearsals, a video showcased random clips of the singer. The video ended with “JUNGKOOK” and “3D” written in bold fonts. Fans, in their excitement, recorded and shared the video online before the actual performance. 

Jungkook officially unveiled it after performing “Seven,” “Still With You,” “Euphoria,” and solo versions of BTS‘ “Dynamite” and “Permission to Dance.” It was later revealed to be the second of two teasers for the song when BigHit Music uploaded both to YouTube.

정국 (Jung Kook) ‘3D’ Hero Film 02

Jungkook talks ‘3D’

After the festival, Jungkook went live on Weverse. He shared, “It’s been a while. I’m coming on for a bit to see you guys. You saw the video released, right? ‘3D’ featuring Jack Harlow. And today, I had the Global Citizen stage… and I tossed out the idea of releasing the video after the performance, and it really happened. Ah, but who took a video of the rehearsal and posted it? You can’t do that; it was supposed to be a surprise.”

Discussing his time away from Weverse, he mentioned, “Of course, I’ve been busy, but there were actually a few times where I had the time to go on live. But… people will lose their curiosity and excitement if I come on too often, so… Of course, this friendly and family-like vibe is nice, but as a singer, I decided not to.”

Reflecting on his performance, Jungkook added, “I’m in New York, but thank you to everyone who came to see me for Global Citizen. And, of course, for those in Korea, thank you for supporting me from afar. How was the stage today? I didn’t get to monitor it properly; I just skimmed through it once. I hope you all liked it. Ah, but the stage itself… my condition is always better during the rehearsals than performances.”

He teased his new single and plans, saying, “Anyways, ‘3D’ is coming out soon, so look forward to it. It’s a completely different style from ‘Seven.’ It’s also almost Chuseok, and there’s a reason things have to happen so fast; it’s for all of you. What could be coming afterward? I’m so curious. Think of it like a Chuseok present! Because it’s Chuseok in Korea. You’re curious, right? Keep being curious. You’ll get good news soon. Thank you again so much for today, and look forward to ‘3D.’ I’ll promote it well, so please support me!” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is one of the concept photos Jungkook’s label posted on X. Source: X/@BIGHIT_MUSIC.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

2PM’s Taecyeon Reflects on Long Career and Ultimate Acting Goal

The 'XO, Kitty' star discussed his career that has spanned over 15 years and his plans on achieving his acting goal

There is little doubt that Taecyeon is one of the most successful icons of K-pop. After all, the 2PM member has been in the industry for over 15 years. In addition to that, Ok Taecyeon is lauded for being a talented actor. Now, the “Vincenzo” star is reflecting on his amazing career and discussing his ultimate acting goal.

Ok Taecyeon Discusses 15-Year Career and Ultimate Acting Goals

Before his solo ‘SpecialTY’ fan meeting in Manila, Ok Taecyeon conducted a press conference where he discussed his experiences in the acting and music industries, his acting projects, and more. The multi-talented artist, who debuted with 2PM in 2008, shared that even though it feels like their debut was just yesterday, he has since ventured into solo music and acting.

“15 years… For some people, it is a long time, but for me, it’s very quick. I’ve learned a lot of things from my experiences,” Taecyeon said.

Taecyeon acknowledged the challenges of being both a group member and a solo artist, emphasizing that he finds it easier in terms of responsibility to be part of a group. “When you’re a solo artist, you will be the only one taking care of everything,” he said.

In addition to his intentions to continue promoting with 2PM, the “XO, Kitty” star admitted he wants to go further in his acting career. He admitted that he has an acting goal in the future. “I want to expand my spectrum as an actor. I want to try to take on more roles,” Taecyeon said.

Regarding his acting endeavors, Taecyeon expressed his desire to explore roles that allow him to showcase his physique, hinting at his readiness to take on physically demanding roles in the future. “Maybe a boxer,” he said.

There is little doubt that Taecyeon will be able to achieve his acting goal in the future. Fans are also hoping to see more of the idol and the rest of 2PM in more promotions. In the meantime, his latest series “Heartbeat” is now streaming on Amazon Prime.

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BLACKPINK’s Rosé Breaks Silence on Taylor Swift’s Listening Party

The BLACKPINK member finally addressed the speculations about her attendance at a so-called listening party for Taylor Swift

People are still talking about the possibility that Taylor Swift is collaborating with BLACKPINK’s Rosé on an upcoming project. After all, the “Gone” singer had been spotted leaving a celebrated recording studio with Swift. So is there any truth to Roseanne Park being involved in the “Bad Blood” singer’s next album? The idol has finally broken her silence about the so-called listening party she attended.

The internet was buzzing with excitement when a video surfaced showing BLACKPINK member Rosé and Taylor Swift leaving the same location. In the video, Rosé can be seen departing from Electric Lady Studios in NYC. Shortly afterwards, Swift also exits the same studio and enters a separate car.

While the video doesn’t offer much detail, fans couldn’t help but be intrigued by the possibility of a collaboration between these two artists, igniting rampant speculation. The rumors gained momentum as it’s widely known that Taylor Swift is actively working on a new album, adding fuel to the belief of a potential joint project with Rosé. Music enthusiasts and fans of both artists eagerly await any official announcements or updates regarding this intriguing possibility.

BLACKPINK’s Rosé Finally Addresses Taylor Swift’s Listening Party

Since then, Rosé has been quiet about the incident. However, that changed when the idol’s fansite Récord had a unique opportunity to engage with the idol directly on the matter while accompanying her to the airport. During their walk to her gate, they engaged in a conversation with her, covering a range of topics, including her recent mosquito bite and the ongoing speculations about a potential collaboration with Taylor Swift.

“I think it was just a party that we had amongst ourselves. But the wrong news got out,” Rosé said.

It’s an interesting confirmation and we’re certainly happy to Rosé being able to attend the listening party. In the meantime, Taylor Swift is currently set to release ‘1989 (Taylor’s Version)’ which was a re-recording of her 2014 album.  The album is set to contain five previously unreleased “From the Vault” tracks.

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