Category: LATEST STORIES

The Japanese music scene is unique in the sense that greatest hits albums are a dime a dozen. This trend isn’t commonly seen in other countries, but it extends even to K-pop acts. SEVENTEEN’s new track “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is a prime example of that. Extracted from the group’s first greatest hits album, this track marks a significant milestone in their illustrious career. Interestingly, while the track was produced by their usual crew—Bumzu, Woozi, and Hwang Hyun, it sounds like it could’ve come from a J-pop artist. 

SEVENTEEN (Ima -Even if the world ends tomorrow-) Official MV

About SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese track

“Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” incorporates elements of Japan’s vibrant rock scene, with its emphasis on guitars and instrumental sections. Its fast tempo, guitar solo, and melodic flow are reminiscent of anime opening songs. But what makes this track remarkable is its breezy, almost spontaneous vibe. That makes it unlike any other song in SEVENTEEN’s catalog, even their previous Japanese-language releases.

Meanwhile, AKB48, a household name in the J-pop industry, is characterized by its unique sound. It has been described as being built on catchy melodies and harmonious vocals. Their songs are usually about friendship, positivity, and youth. Their stage presence is enhanced by energetic choreography that appeals to a wide demographic. Like SEVENTEEN, their discography spans genres, from ballads to pop-rock. 

Drawing a parallel between the two groups and their respective sonic palettes, both AKB48 and the Pledis Entertainment boy group prioritize catchiness and positivity in their work. Furthermore, both use their large roster to their advantage. Many of AKB48’s songs are aligned with Japan’s rich rock music legacy, and “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” is in that vein too.

It’s very J-pop

Its J-pop influence is palpable—and that hasn’t escaped the keen ears of AKB48 devotees. When it was performed on Japanese music show CDTV for the first time, they took to social media to say it echoes the AKB48 sound. One fan even called SEVENTEEN an all-male version of AKB48.

Some drew parallels to the group’s classics, while others said it’s reminiscent of their 61st single, “Doushitemo Kimi ga Sukida.” Notably, the center of that song was Honda Hitomi, a Japanese idol who was in the K-pop girl group IZ*ONE from 2018 to 2021.

Some also suggested that SEVENTEEN’s new Japanese-language hit sounds like music from groups handled by Johnny & Associates, a prestigious entertainment agency in Japan. It specializes in boy groups like Hey! Say! JUMP, Naniwa Danshi, Snow Man, Six Tones, Travis Japan, and more.

Both the AKB48 sound and SEVENTEEN‘s “Ima – Even If The World Ends Tomorrow” perfectly capture the lively, optimistic spirit of J-pop. That means it has the potential to do really well in the Japanese music charts. After all, it has all the elements J-pop lovers want to hear in the music they listen to. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: SEVENTEEN posed for a groufie after performing on CDTV, a top Japanese music show. Source: Twitter/@pledis_17jp.

The 2023 Brand of the Year Awards, held on September 4, was a dazzling display of South Korea‘s best and brightest in entertainment. Organized by the Korean Consumer Forum, this event honors those who have significantly impacted brand value, based on factors like consumer votes and expert insights. This year, the ceremony celebrated a diverse group of stars—K-drama actors, K-pop idols,  radio DJs, and even YouTubers. With over 8,019,000 voters participating in online and phone-based surveys, the winners truly represented the voice of the general consumers.

Among the evening’s highlights was the crowning of tripleS as winners of the Female Rookie Award. This accolade is a testament to the indelible mark they’ve made since debuting. Their success story is further echoed by a fan’s comment on Reddit, stating, “Deserved, they had an insane year. I hope they’re proud of themselves for all they’ve achieved in such a short but significant period of time!”

In addition to tripleS‘ big win, other notable winners included BLACKPINK‘s Jisoo for Female Solo Artist and Lim Young Woong for Male Solo Artist. The K-drama segment saw Kim So Yeon and Lee Dong Wook bagging top honors for their roles in the acclaimed Tale of the Nine-Tailed 1938. The award ceremony also highlighted comedians, MCs, radio DJs, and variety shows.

What’s next for tripleS?

Their fans can look forward to seeing the tripleS subunit Acid Angel from Asia (AAA) attend the 29th Chungcheongnam-do ParaGames on September 7 at 6:00 PM KST. As confirmed by the tripleS Discord server, they’ll be performing at this particular event.

tripleS AAA, Generation [THE SHOW 221115]

AAA made waves with their debut on October 28, 2022. Comprising Gong Yubin, Jeong Hyerin, Kim Yooyeon, and Kim Nakyoung, their mini album <ACCESS> achieved commercial and critical success. Notably, “Generation” was nominated for first place on SBS M’s The Show, and <ACCESS> got the No. 1 spot on the iTunes US K-pop album chart.

However, it’s not all celebrations for the group. The debut album of tripleS‘s sub-unit EVOLution, initially slated for release on October 4 KST, has been postponed to October 11. The delay is due to the Asian Games and Chuseok holiday. Despite this unfortunate twist in their schedules, EVOLution, featuring Kamimoto Kotone, Kim Chaeyeon, Kim Nakyoung, Kim Soomin, Kim Yooyeon, Koma Mayu, Kwak Yeonji, and Lee Jiwoo, promises to be another feather in tripleS’ cap. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The girls achieved so much in a short time. Source: Twitter/@tripleSGLOBAL.

The K-pop scene is buzzing with excitement. EVNNE, a promising new boy group, dropped a trailer for their debut mini-album Target: ME. This trailer is a visual feast, as each scene brims with the members’ charms. Every single one of them complements the others. Their expressions, filled with determination and youthful exuberance, capture the raw emotions of their journey. 

EVNNE(이븐) Debut Trailer

The members of EVNNE make a powerful first impression in the trailer. Each one stands alone in a stadium, poised at the starting line of a race track, their faces bearing focused expressions. Their muscles are tense, and they’re raring to burst into action. But when they finally start running, it’s not long before they stop, overcome by the initial burst of exertion. One member even collapses on the track, chest heaving with exhaustion and disappointment written all over his face. This scene is a testament to the members’ drive, symbolizing their pursuit of their dreams; the act of stopping after running also signifies the roadblocks they encounter along that journey.

Next, the trailer delves into the lives of the members. Each one is shown auditioning on their own in a bid to make a debut. When the trailer premiered online, one fan remarked, “This trailer is almost like a documentary about how the group was formed.” As the trailer progresses, the members start to shine with agile performances and passionate singing. EVNNE elevated the anticipation for their forthcoming debut by conveying a fresh, refreshing atmosphere with outstanding styling and strong individual performances.

EVNNE is coming soon

The trailer culminates with a return to the stadium. This time, the members are running on the race track together. It’s like their unity is giving them the strength and will to keep running passionately toward their dreams.

COMING SOON 🎯 #EVNNE #이븐 #Target_ME

EVNNE is a collaboration between Rain Company, WAKEONE, and Yuehua Entertainment, operating under the Jellyfish Entertainment banner. The group boasts notable Boys Planet contestants like Ji Yunseo, Keita, Lee Jeonghyeon, Mun Junghyun, Park Hanbin, Park Jihoo, and Yoo Seungeon. The group’s name, EVNNE, translates to “Evening’s Newest Etoiles.” As “etoile” is French for “star,” this name symbolizes their goal to shine brilliantly at the highest point in the night sky, attracting fans’ attention.

EVNNE will release their first mini-album Target: ME on September 19 at 6:00 PM across various online and offline platforms. This release is eagerly awaited by fans and music enthusiasts alike, as they anticipate the fresh, innovative sound EVNNE promises to bring to the table. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: They’re running full tilt toward their dreams. Source: Twitter/@EVNNE_official.

Juyeon, the visual of the popular K-pop group The Boyz, is renowned for his striking looks. But it’s not just his appearance that leaves a lasting impression on other people. His charm and humility are equally captivating. A recent encounter in Paris is proof of this.

On September 3, 2023, a European fan shared a delightful story about her unexpected encounter with the K-pop idol in the City of Lights. While exploring the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Montmartre district, she and her friend stumbled upon a “really handsome guy” in a chapel next to the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. Little did they know, this handsome stranger was none other than Juyeon.

In a series of posts on X (formerly Twitter), the fan recalled, “I was taking photos when my friend came up to me and said, ‘Look behind me! There’s a really handsome guy!’”

Initially unaware of his identity, the duo continued their tour. However, curiosity got the better of them, and they approached Juyeon and his companion to ask for their Instagram handles. Juyeon‘s response was endearing and surprising. “When we asked him if he had Instagram, he seemed a little surprised, then he said, ‘Um, no.’ He asked where we were from. We said France and he said Korea. We then told him ‘Have a good day!’”

Close encounters with Juyeon

The story took another nice turn when the fan bumped into someone while taking a photo in front of the Basilique du Sacré-Coeur. To her astonishment, it was Juyeon. He recognized her too, and that culminated in a revelation. “He told me, word for word, ‘Actually, I have Instagram.’ Surprised again, I handed him my phone. When Juyeon handed me back my phone, I quickly looked at his photos. I thought to myself, ‘Weird, it looks like a celebrity account,’ until my eyes fell on the account’s name, which was @official_theboyz. I was shocked and started to stammer a little.”

She told Juyeon that while she didn’t recognize him at first, she knew of the band and loved their music. He responded by calling her a liar—as a joke, mind you. When she asked for a photo, he gave in and even put his best foot forward. “He was very motivated to take beautiful photos because the first time I tried to take my phone back after taking one, he said, ‘Again.’ It was cute and fun,” she wrote. “After taking photos. We thanked him and he asked us not to post them just yet. We said we could wait. We didn’t want to cause him any problems.”

The encounter didn’t end there. As the girls deliberated their next destination, Juyeon approached them once more, this time bearing two cups of strawberry granita as a token of appreciation. Their final farewell was marked by Juyeon‘s gracious wave, leaving an indelible mark on their hearts.

What to do when you meet an idol

The fan then offered some wise advice to others lucky enough to meet their idols in public. “If you ever meet a star, don’t jump on him with a video right away! Ask nicely if you can take a photo, and simply enjoy the moment. That way, you and your idol can have a good time without any problems and create a good memory!”

She then addressed Juyeon directly, “Finally, I’d just like to say a few words to Juyeon. Thank you for this simple and precious moment. We’ll remember it! I hope your trip to Paris went well and that you were able to enjoy it without problems. We’ll definitely be coming to The Boyz’s next concert!”

In related news, The Boyz released their second album [PHANTASY] Pt.1 Christmas in August. It features six tracks, including the summery bop “LIP GLOSS,” which has garnered over eight million streams on MelOn. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Two lucky Europeans lived every Deobi’s dream. Source: Twitter/@juyeonleepics.