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BTS’ Jungkook Interacts With ARMY Outside a Restaurant

On the eve of his 26th birthday, BTSJungkook became the talk of the town. Photos of him chilling outside a restaurant in South Korea made the rounds on social media. They weren’t just any photos; they depicted genuine moments of the singer engaging with fans, sharing smiles and taking selfies.

Among the lucky fans was a young woman whose Instagram username is @ka_young2000. She shares a birthday with Jungkook, and she ran into him at the restaurant while celebrating her own special day. She posted photos with him and expressed her joy in the caption, describing the encounter as a dream come true. Later, two other fans also shared their own delightful run-ins with the idol at the same spot.

The ARMY, BTS‘ global fanbase, was abuzz with excitement. Many were happy for them, while some playfully wished they could fly to Seoul for a similar serendipitous encounter. These events further highlighted Jungkook‘s down-to-earth nature, with fans noting how friendly and warm he was. 

Later that day, he posted a message on Weverse. “Hi, everyone, It’s my birthday,” Jungkook began. As time passes, it feels more and more as if my birthday doesn’t feel like much. But since the time that all of you guys prepared for is precious, I’m making sure to clearly write these words.”

Jungkook is ‘always thankful’

He expressed his gratitude for the time fans devote to him, acknowledging the love he receives and reciprocates. “I’m just always thankful, and as precious as all of your time is, I want to tell you that I’m receiving your love and also that I love you,” he continued. “Lately, I’ve been happily spending my day by day. I have confidence that I’m doing well these days, but I’m certain that if it weren’t for you, I wouldn’t know how things would’ve turned out. Moving forward, let’s just trust each other, and I want to trust myself and walk alongside all of you. Thank you always! Let’s be happy.”

After posting that message, he did a short live broadcast where he opened up some more. Dressed in the same outfit from earlier—a notable t-shirt from ENFANTS RICHES DÉPRIMÉS—he sounded off on certain topics and said goodbye with signature warmth and charm.

“I feel good. Today I’ll keep this happy heart and sleep well. Recently, my insomnia has gotten a bit worse. On one occasion, I only had five hours to sleep, and it was like I just closed my eyes for five hours and then I had to go out. But today, I’ll put everything down and go to sleep happily. Anyway, today, I wanted to say hello. I’ll go now. Thank you, thank you always! Love you! Have a good time and take your meals. Bye!”

Such interactions between BTS and their fans underscore the strong bond they share, a testament to the mutual love and respect that defines their relationship. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: In honor of Jungkook’s birthday, his agency BigHit Music shared a photo album on their fan community platform. Source: Weverse.

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BTS’ Jimin Gives Back, Inspires Fans Worldwide to Do the Same

BTS‘s Jimin isn’t just famous for his musical prowess; he’s also making waves with his philanthropic endeavors. His recent donation of 100 million KRW to the Chungbuk Provincial Office of Education has become a topic of discussion among ARMY and the general public. 

An official “Public Disclosure Document” revealed that Jimin‘s donation will benefit 10 educational institutions in the province, with each receiving 10 million KRW. The fund targets reading education programs.

Interestingly, Jimin’s father had asked that the donation remain private, emphasizing the genuine intent behind the superstar’s gesture. An official from the Chungbuk Provincial Office of Education said, “We’ll strive to cultivate upright character in students through reading various books so that the donor’s warm heart can be conveyed well.”

This isn’t Jimin‘s first act of generosity. Last year, he made a donation to the Gangwon Education Scholarship Foundation. Recently, he contributed 5 million KRW to Busan‘s Nam District as part of the Hometown Love Donation initiative. It encourages people to donate to local governments, even if they live and work elsewhere. In exchange, donors can avail of tax deductions and get local specialty products. The funds collected go to projects that benefit residents, like those that revitalize local communities and support vulnerable populations.

Jimin sparked a global movement

Jimin‘s consistent philanthropy, including previous donations to the Busan and Jeonnam Offices of Education, the Green Umbrella Child Fund and polio patients, solidified his reputation as a prominent celebrity who leverages his platform for the greater good. His actions have not only made headlines but have also inspired fans worldwide to follow in his footsteps.

For instance, Jimin’s Swiss fanbase was really moved by his commitment to children’s welfare. They gave to UNICEF and expressed their goal to “help children around the world enjoy a better future and protect them from harm.” Indonesian fans were similarly inspired and contributed to the SOS Children’s Villages in their country. On Twitter, fans used the #ShareYourHeartLikeJimin hashtag.

Furthermore, Jimin Nation of the Asia-Pacific region, celebrated Jimin‘s Spotify achievement of 1 billion streams by donating to UNICEF in his honor. Their message was clear: “Inspired by the role model that is Jimin, we wanted to give back to society and help children.”

Jimin‘s acts of kindness sparked a global movement. Fans from all corners of the world are coming forward to support children in war zones, endangered animals, and victims of COVID-19 and natural disasters, as well as people from vulnerable communities. This ripple effect of generosity, initiated by Jimin, showcases the power of positive influence and the potential of a global community united by compassion and empathy. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin truly has a giving heart. Source: Twitter/@_BTSMoments_.

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‘IU Concert: The Golden Hour’ Film to Premiere in September

Uaenas, it’s your chance to relive the magic of attending IU’s concert! The singer-songwriter is releasing her first concert film titled IU Concert: The Golden Hour globally. 

According to the AMC Theaters’ website, the film will feature IU’s  The Golden Hour: Under the Orange Sun concert. Held in September 17-18, 2022, the two-day concert served as the singer’s first solo concert in three years following her Love, Poem show. 

Additionally, it was also the concert that made IU the first Korean female singer to perform at the iconic Olympic Main Stadium in Seoul, the largest stadium in South Korea. 

In that concert, the K-pop superstar drew a total of 85,000 attendees. Even celebrities like BTS’ Jungkook, TWICE’s Nayeon, and actors Kim-Soo-hyun, Lee Joon-Gi and Kang Han-na, didn’t miss the chance to watch the remarkable show.

What to expect in ‘IU Concert: The Golden Hour’ film 

Based on the trailer, the film will highlight the concert’s magical scenes. During the show, it featured a huge production, including a hot air balloon act, a live orchestra performance, a drone show, fireworks, and enormous stage set-ups.

The singer was also seen leaving a heartwarming message to her fans; Later on when you reminisce about me, I hope you can remember this moment as the brightest moment,” IU said. 

 

Given that the concert spanned for four hours each day and featured around 25 songs, attendees were treated with hits from IU’s long-spanning career. However, the concert film will only have a total running time of 2 hours and 51 minutes.

But what makes IU Concert: The Golden Hour even more special is that its release falls under the celebration of the singer-songwriter’s 15th anniversary in the industry.

The film will have its initial release in South Korea this September 13. It will be released across 38 countries around the world on September 28 and 30. 

On her social media, IU also left a message for her global fans who’d like to watch the concert film. “Global UAENA can also watch this movie. I’ll go see you in person next time. Love you, thank you always.” 

 

As per EDAM Entertainment, the film will be available in IMAX theaters worldwide. “The big screen and surround sound from cinemas will recreate the concert experience from last year.”, the company said in a press release. 

IU’s 15th year in the industry

Dubbed as the “Nation’s Little Sister”, IU debuted at the age of 15 with her song “Lost Child.” Since then, she has continually created masterpieces such as “Celebrity”, “Palette”, andGood Day”, more popularly known for its three octave high note trademark.

Aside from a successful career as a soloist, IU excels in the world of acting as well. She has starred in numerous beloved dramas including Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo, and Hotel del Luna.

The 2011 series Dream High marked her debut as an actress. Meanwhile, her most recent work is Dream with Park Seo Joon.

In December 2022, it was confirmed that she’s dating actor Lee Jong Suk. 

Featured image: IU during her ‘The Golden Hour’ concert in September 2022. Credit: Twitter/IU

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Look: Exo’s D.O Drops Teaser for Solo Album ‘Expectation’

Save the date, EXO-Ls because soloist D.O. is back! EXO’s D.O. released on Friday, September 1, the teaser for his upcoming second solo mini album Expectation. 

In the teaser, the vocalist is seen sitting in front of a desk and deep in thought. Additionally, EXO’s official social media accounts also changed their icons to signify the start of a new era. 

 

According to reports, Expectation will consist of seven emotional tracks that will showcase D.O’s excellent vocal abilities.

 

Other details about Expectation have yet to be unveiled as of writing, but D.O. has already hinted about his second solo album. 

In a previous interview, the singer revealed that he finished the album preparations including the recording, filming for music videos, and jacket photos in May 2022. 

“I wanted to start preparing early so I have completed them before getting involved in other shoots. The album will consist of acoustic-like songs that I love so much.”, he said.

Additionally, D.O. promised that once the album is released, he’ll conduct an event where he can meet his fans. 

D.O. as a soloist

Following the news, EXO-Ls couldn’t help but to express their excitement as it’s been awhile since D.O. had a solo music release. Some are also anticipating the genre of his tracks since the vocalist is known to be one of the leading singers in the industry. 

On social media, fans of EXO are already calling it a “masterpiece” and “album of the year.” 

 

D.O. released his first solo album Empathy in July 2021. It topped the iTunes Top Album charts in 60 regions around the world. On top of that, the album excelled locally as well as it ranked No. 1 on South Korea’s daily album charts including Hanteo Chart, Synnara Record, and HOTTRACKS

The singer’s first album had a total of eight tracks including the Korean and English versions of its title track “Rose”, which he personally wrote lyrics for. Aside from “Rose,” D.O. also wrote the track I’m Fine.

 

Also, Empathy has two bonus songs: the English version of “Rose,” and “Si Fueras Mia,” the Spanish version of another B-side track, “It’s Love.

With the success of Empathy, it’s not surprising that fans can no longer wait to see what D.O. has to show as a soloist after two years.

Aside from his upcoming solo album Expectation, the artist also recently finished promoting EXO’s seventh full-length album EXIST and his film The Moon

As an actor, D.O. goes by his real name Doh Kyung-soo. His first major acting role was in the 2014 drama It’s Okay, That’s Love where he played Han Gang Woo. Since then, he has appeared in Hello Monster, My Annoying Brother,Room No. 7, and Swing Kids, among others.

Featured image: D.O. poses in the teaser of EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Super Junior’s Donghae and Eunhyuk Establish Ode Entertainment

Super Junior members Donghae and Eunhyuk marked a new milestone in the career with the establishment of their own agency ODE Entertainment. 

In a press release to Newsen, the newly-minted label confirmed that it was established by the Super Junior members.

“[They] have taken their place as co-CEOs after the expiration of their contracts with SM Entertainment,” the statement continued. 

Additionally, Super Junior’s longtime manager Wong Yon Sun also came with the two idols in ODE Entertainment. 

 

The confirmation came more than a month after Donghae, Eunhyuk, and Kyuhyun left SM Entertainment. Currently, Kyuhyun is  the Antenna agency.

Despite their departure from the agency as individuals, the three will continue participating as members of Super Junior. The group, which debuted in 2005, has renewed its contract with SM Entertainment.

Interestingly, the two joined the growing roster of K-pop idols who established their own entertainment agencies. The list includes Kang Daniel, Kim Sohye, HIGHLIGHT, and INFINITE among others. 

What’s next for Donghae and Eunhyuk?

While there’s still no additional details about Donghae and Eunhyuk’s plans for ODE Entertainment, fans are already looking forward to this new start for the idols. 

Especially that Eunhyuk and Donghae have also been promoting as the Super Junior sub-unit D&E. The duo, who was the fifth sub-unit of Super Junior, made their debut in 2011. 

As a unit, the act is known for their songs Oppa, Oppa,” “B.A.D,” “Can You Feel It?” “Danger,” “Growing Pains,” andBout You.” 

As of now, the two are also embarking on their Delight Party fan concert tour. 

Moreover, Donghae was recently confirmed to star in the upcoming romantic-comedy series Man and Woman. Meanwhile, Eunhyuk is an artist director in the pre-debut reality show NCT Universe: LASTART.

As for group activities, they’re also set to star in the travel show Knights of the Lamp. 

Featured image: Super Junior D&E during filming for their ‘Zero’ music video. Credit: Facebook/Super Junior

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TOMORROW X TOGETHER to Perform New Single at the MTV VMAs 2023

MOAs, you do not want to miss this! MTV confirmed that K-pop boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) is one of the performers for their upcoming 2023 Video Music Awards (VMAs). 

Both TXT and the VMAs announced the news through social media on Thursday, August 31. And what makes it even more exciting is that the quintet will be premiering special stages for the prestigious music festival. 

 

According to reports, TXT will have a debut performance of a special track from their upcoming studio album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.

Aside from the much anticipated pre-release track, the “Good Boy Gone Bad” singers will also be having a special collaboration performance with Brazilian singer Anitta. With this, TXT becomes the first Kp-pop group to showcase a genre-fusing collaboration at the VMAs.

Besides TXT and Anitta, the new roster of artists revealed to be part of the show includes Doja Cat, Lill Wayne, and Kelsea Ballerini. They will be joining the previously announced lineup of Stray Kids, Demi Lovato, Karol G, and Maneskin.

Interestingly, this year will mark the first time for the VMAs to have two K-pop acts as performers. Previously, only worldwide sensations BTS and BLACKPINK have performed in the show. 

Aside from performing at the VMAs, TXT also garnered two nominations in the show. They’re nominees for the Push Performance of the Year and Best K-Pop categories, both for their recent title track “Sugar Rush Ride.”

The 2023 MTV VMAs will air live on September 12, 8PM ET.

VMAs and more: 2023 is a year of breakthroughs for TXT

Following the news, MOAs (TXT’s fandom) couldn’t help but to express their excitement towards the group’s upcoming performances. Others also looked back at how 2023 has indeed gifted the group with so many breakthroughs. 

Earlier this year, TXT hit No. 1 on the Billboard 200 for the first time with their The Name Chapter: Temptation EP. 

They also released their “Do It Like That collaboration with American band Jonas Brothers in July, amid their ACT: Sweet Mirage” world tour. The collaboration immediately dominated the charts, hitting No.1 on iTunes Top Songs charts worldwide.

 

Additionally, TXT has yet made another milestone as they headlined Lollapalooza in August, making them the first ever South Korean group to rock the major US Festival. For that show, they surprised fans with a mash-up performance of “Happy Fools” and “Players” with American rapper Coi Leray.

After the VMAs, TXT is set to gear up and make preparations for their upcoming albumThe Name Chapter: FREEFALL, which will be released on October 13. 

Featured image: TOMORROW X TOGETHER for their 2023 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Facebook/TOMORROW X TOGETHER

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Estimated Gross of ‘Born Pink World Tour’ at 350 Billion KRW

In the ever-evolving world of K-pop, BLACKPINK stands out as a beacon of success and influence. This quartet, celebrated for their captivating beauty and unwavering chart dominance, has redefined the very essence of global superstardom. Their journey, marked by hit singles and sold-out concerts, has been a testament to their unparalleled talent and charisma.

BLACKPINK – ‘B.P.M.’ Roll #28

Starting their ‘Born Pink’ world tour in October 2022, BLACKPINK performed in some of the world’s most iconic cities. From Australian arenas to New York streets, they left an indelible mark with each performance. This musical odyssey, spanning almost a year, is set to conclude with a grand finale next month at the renowned Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea.

The financial figures emerging from this year-long tour are nothing short of breathtaking. Reports suggest that the group has grossed a staggering 350 billion KRW, approximately 264.5 million USD. This monumental sum has not only left fans in awe but has also ignited a flurry of discussions among netizens.

BLACKPINK wows netizens

Many online users have expressed their admiration, with comments such as “They’re like a high-earning corporation” and “The numbers are truly impressive.” Curiosity also abounds, with fans pondering over the individual earnings of each member and the percentage that BLACKPINK receives from the tour’s total revenue.

BLACKPINK – ‘B.P.M.’ Roll #29

Beyond the numbers, what’s truly remarkable is BLACKPINK‘s ability to connect with fans from diverse cultures and backgrounds. Their music transcends boundaries, and their performances are a blend of powerful vocals, intricate choreography, and mesmerizing visuals.

BLACKPINK‘s ‘Born Pink’ world tour showcased their musical talents and highlighted their immense earning potential. As they continue to break barriers and set new standards, the world eagerly awaits their next move. Their journey, from being K-pop idols to global superstars, serves as an inspiration to many. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: In what has become a tradition for them, the girls posed for a groufie with everyone who came to watch the Bay Area concert. Source: Twitter/@BLACKPINK.

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ENHYPEN Premiered ‘Criminal Love’ on M Countdown

As a way to give back some of the love their fans have showered them with, the seven-member boy group ENHYPEN made a surprise appearance on M Countdown. This wasn’t just any performance; they debuted “Criminal Love,” a second song from the soundtrack of HYBE’s original webtoon Dark Moon: Altar of the Moon.

Released just last month, the lyrics of “Criminal Love” paint a vivid picture of a dangerous love, one that’s continuously yearned for despite a recurring cruel fate. The song is more than just lyrics and music; it’s an experience. With ENHYPEN‘s slick choreography and strong vocals, it’s not surprising the song has garnered so much attention.

Before “Criminal Love” hit streaming services (and before the boys performed it on M Countdown), fans got a sneak peek at the song during ENHYPEN‘s second world tour. Held on the 29th and 30th of the previous month, the choreography of the song elicited enthusiastic cheers from the crowd at the KSPO Dome. Such was the impact of this performance that “Criminal Love” dominated social media real-time trends in South Korea for two consecutive days. Moreover, on the day of the song’s official release, its title and the septet’s name snagged the 2nd and 4th spots on Melon’s real-time search, indicating an explosive response from fans.

ENHYPEN is marking a new roadmap for K-pop

In K-pop, it’s quite rare for an artist to perform a song outside of their album activities on a music show. But ENHYPEN isn’t your run-of-the-mill group. They combined the music and story IP for the soundtrack of Dark Moon: Altar of the Moon. They also incorporated it into the mini album DARK BLOOD. This innovative approach solidified their unique color in the industry. In essence, the boys are marking a new roadmap for K-pop.

As of this writing, ENHYPEN is gearing up for a series of shows in Japan. After hitting the Kyocera Dome on September 2 and 3, they’ll make history with their Tokyo Dome concerts on September 13 and 14. Heeseung, Jake, Jay, Jungwon, Ni-Ki, Sunghoon, and Sunoo will set a new record for the shortest time it has taken a K-pop boy group to perform at Tokyo Dome since debut.

That achievement alone proves that ENHYPEN‘s journey, marked by their unique approach to their craft, continues to captivate fans worldwide. Meanwhile, their performance of “Criminal Love” on M Countdown is a testament to their growing influence in the world of K-pop. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: ENGENEs went wild over the boys’ ‘Criminal Love’ debut on M Countdown. Source: YouTube/@Mnet.

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Fans Protest Against SM Entertainment for Alleged Mistreatment of NCT’s Jaemin

Amidst the ongoing promotional activities for the album Golden Age, several fans have called out SM Entertainment for allegedly not giving fair and equal treatment for NCT’s Jaemin. 

With the hashtags “Respect Jaemin as artist,” “SM be fair to Jaemin,” and “Jaemin deserves better,” fans have listed down their complaints for the agency’s supposed unfair conduct towards the idol. 

SM Entertainment’s alleged behavior towards NCT’s Jaemin 

According to fans, there have been multiple instances wherein SM Entertainment’s treatment of Jaemin has been concerning. 

One of the listed circumstances was during NCT DREAM’s promotional activities for their third studio album ISTJ. Eagle-eyed fans claim that Jaemin’s TikTok challenge videos were predominantly shot on the filming sites for the group’s music video or concert venues. However, fans pointed out that the idol already mentioned that he did the challenge with other artists. But a quick scroll on NCT DREAM’s TikTok account would show that it wasn’t uploaded. 

 

Next, fans also noticed that Jaemin was the only member who used the same photo for the poster of NCT Nation: To The World. Other NCT members had different concept photos in the several posters. Aside from the poster, other fans also mentioned that Jaemin was once excluded in a VCR, too. 

 

Additionally, fans raised the alarm about Jaemin’s styling. A compilation of his previous wardrobe and looks showed that most of his outfits were repetitive. More than not being given accessories, fans were more worried about the clothing and shoes that the idol used that are bigger than his size. 

 

But what really dismayed the fans was the lack of opportunities for Jaemin to act or be a brand ambassador. Even hough he already received an acting award, he hadn’t had any recent engagements for dramas or any brand deals. 

 

Because of this, fans couldn’t help but air out their discontent for the agency. In fact, some fans even sent protest trucks in front of SM Entertainment’s building. 

However, the label has yet to react or acknowledge the issue. 

Dramas in NCT Land

Nonetheless, Jaemin’s situation isn’t the only controversy surrounding an NCT member recently. 

Currently, SM Entertainment is pursuing legal action against an individual who trespassed into Jaehyun’s hotel room. 

Meanwhile, fans were also concerned about the members’ health conditions. They also slammed the agency for not putting the artist’s health and safety their priority. 

That is because Taeyong has complained about having chest discomfort, while Taeil  sustained a fracture in his thigh because of a motorcycle . Moreover, other members such as Winwin, Renjun, Haechan, Johnny, and Chenle were also experiencing health problems in the previous months. 

Despite the series of issues though, NCT still remains to be booked and busy. They’ve been releasing music videos for the tracks for Golden Age. 

Also, they’re set to embark on the Japan stops for their concert tour. As for NCT 127, another NCT subunit, they’re making a comeback in October with their fifth full-length album Fact Check. 

In early August, NCT also announced four upcoming releases from its NCT LAB project

Featured image: NCT’s Jaemin in the teasers for ‘Golden Age.’ Credit: Facebook/NCT

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2PM’s Nichkhun Discusses NSFW Scenes in ‘The Modelizer’

Nichkhun has a good reason for not showing his mother his latest movie ‘The Modelizer’. The 2PM member revealed that he had to film some NSFW scenes for his new project!

2PM’s Nichkhun Opens Up About Sexy Scenes In Latest Movie

On the episode of ‘HK Coin’ that aired on August 31st, the 2PM members celebrated their 15th anniversary. During the show, Nichkhun discussed his recent busy schedule. He mentioned, “I’ve been travelling abroad lately. I’ve even had the opportunity to work on a Hollywood movie.”

His fellow 2PM groupmates chimed in, describing the film as, “A love story with a sensational, dark, and unconventional twist.” But when the topic turned to whether there were any revealing scenes in the movie, the 2PM members humorously revealed that the content was more R-rated than they initially expected.

Nichkhun agreed with his fellow members. He humorously shared, “When I went to shoot the second half of the movie, the first scene made me feel, for the first time, that I didn’t want my mom to watch it.”

Nichkhun might be known as a member of 2PM but he has also established himself as an actor and model. In 2021, Nichkhun Buck Horvejkul and Hwang Chan-sung made special cameo appearances in “Vincenzo” to support their bandmate Ok Taec-yeon. He was later cast in ‘The Modelizer’ alongside Hollywood actor Byron Mann. In the film, they portrayed the roles of affluent family scions who embark on a journey to Hong Kong. Along the way, they encounter a series of events that profoundly enlighten them about the true essence of love and friendship.

Nichkhun debuted with 2PM in 2008 and the group dropped their debut song “10 Out of 10”, which showcased their acrobatic dance styles. They then achieved their first number 1 single with “Again & Again”. In 2009, Jay Park left the group. The remaining members include Jun. K (formerly known as Junsu), Nichkhun, Taecyeon, Wooyoung, Junho and Chansung.

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