Category: LATEST STORIES

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.

The Hollywood Reporter (THR), an American magazine focusing on the Hollywood entertainment industry, recently unveiled its inaugural “25 Platinum Players in Music”’ power list—and Jungkook of BTS is on it. This list celebrates artists who have significantly impacted the cultural landscape. They’re breaking and setting records, crafting albums and songs that resonate globally, and performing for audiences ranging from thousands to millions. In other words, they’re the defining voices in music for the year.

As part of this list, BTS’ golden maknae stands shoulder to shoulder with other luminaries such as Beyoncé, Drake, Ice Spice, Olivia Rodrigo, and SZA. “We all know the challenges that come with going solo after being in an international group—it isn’t easy,” the report notes. However, Jungkook has effortlessly transitioned into his solo career, making waves with his chart-topping hit “Seven,” a collaboration with Latto. This track didn’t just dominate local charts. It earned the title of Billboard’s No. 1 global song of the summer for 2023.

While BTS may have paused group activities due to military service commitments, its members continue to thrive individually. For instance, Jimin released a No. 1 hit titled “Like Crazy.” SUGA embarked on a world tour in April, and V made his solo debut earlier this month.

Jungkook continues to soar

Established in 1930, The Hollywood Reporter served as a daily trade paper. By 2010, it had transformed into a weekly large-format print magazine, complemented by a revamped website. Penske Media Corporation, in collaboration with Eldridge Industries, currently oversees its day-to-day operations. The magazine’s weekly print edition is a treasure trove of insights. It features profiles, interviews, film reviews, industry deals analysis, and more. It captures the pulse of Hollywood, from fashion and lifestyle to red-carpet events.

The late 1980s saw THR pioneering digital editions. By 1995, it became the first daily entertainment trade paper to launch a website. Over the years, the site underwent multiple redesigns. Its content strategy evolved from a premium paid service to a more ad-reliant model. As of 2013, the site boasted a whopping 12 million unique monthly visitors. It now offers a mix of breaking news, reviews, blogs, videos, and in-depth coverage across various entertainment sectors.

Jungkook‘s inclusion in THR‘s ’25 Platinum Players in Music’ list is a testament to his immense talent and the indelible mark he’s left on the music industry. As he continues to soar to new heights, fans worldwide eagerly await his next move, confident that he’ll continue to set the bar higher. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook’s inclusion on this list is just the latest in a series of recognitions he’s received this year. Source: Vogue Korea.