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Former Boy Band Member Reacts to Jonas Brothers’ Collab With TXT

The music world buzzed with excitement when the Jonas Brothers teamed up with South Korea‘s TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) on the track “Do It Like That.” Released on July 7, 2023, this dance-pop confection captures the feeling of falling in love through its catchy lyrics and music. The collaboration is further elevated by an electrifying music video, the brainchild of Ryan Tedder, the lead vocalist of OneRepublic.

Amidst the wave of reactions, one voice stood out—Nathan Walters’. A music producer, recording artist, and former member of the boy band Plus One, Walters decided to share his thoughts on this collaboration. “Back in the early 2000s, I was in a band called Plus One on Atlantic Records. We sold over a million records and toured the world,” he reminisced. Given his background with vocal groups and his love for harmonies, Walters was eager to dive into the video.

Former Boyband Member reacts to BTS Junior? (TXT x Jonas Brothers) “Do It Like That”

Throughout his reaction, Walters expressed admiration for the song’s delivery, the visuals, and the performance of both groups. He particularly enjoyed the chorus, stating, “I love that chorus or the beginning of that chorus.” Walters also appreciated the mix of pop-programmed elements with live drums and elements, highlighting the unpredictability of the melody.

However, he expressed disappointment upon realizing that the Jonas Brothers and TXT weren’t in one place during the music video shoot. “I thought they were going to be together, hanging out,” he mentioned. Despite this, Walters‘ overall impression was positive, even hinting at possibly covering the song in the future.

Who is Nathan Walters?

Beyond his reaction to the collaboration, it’s essential to understand Walters‘ musical background. With over 1.2 million albums sold as part of Plus One, he has collaborated with renowned Western artists like Jessica Simpson and Nicole Scherzinger. His musical journey spans two decades, during which he also crafted scores for TV advertisements and channels like MTV and VH1.

Operating out of North American music hubs like Los Angeles and Nashville, Walters is best known for nurturing independent talent. His collaboration with the artist FUTURES amassed over 3 million Spotify streams, clinching the No. 1 spot on iTunes. Walters‘ approach to music production is deeply collaborative, ensuring those he works with can express their unique sound. Whether he’s working in iconic studios like the Capitol Records Tower or remotely, he leverages cutting-edge technology to replicate the studio experience.

Record with Billboard Charting Producer – Nathan Walters

The collaboration between the Jonas Brothers and TXT has certainly made waves worldwide. With seasoned artists like Nathan Walters weighing in, it’s obvious that “Do It Like That” has bridged generations, resonating with both new listeners and those familiar with the evolution of boy bands. 

As fans worldwide continue to enjoy “Do It Like That,” it’s heartening to see how much admiration and respect artists have for each other, regardless of their backgrounds or the eras they’re from. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The song blew Nathan Walters’ mind. Source: YouTube/@NathanWalters.

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RED VELVET Irene’s Latest Brand Endorsement Sold Out in Minutes

The K-Pop community is currently abuzz with excitement, and the reason behind it is none other than the return of RED VELVET’s Irene to the spotlight. This time, she’s taking on the role of the new muse for 2aN, a Korean makeup brand’s Japanese branch. Irene’s comeback with a new brand endorsement comes after a three-year hiatus from such engagements.

RED VELVET’s Irene Returns With New Brand Endorsement

Earlier this week, 2aN embarked on a playful teaser campaign, keeping fans in suspense with a series of deliberately blurred videos, prompting them to guess the identity of their newest muse. However, when you’re as iconic as Irene, staying incognito is nearly impossible. REVELUVs, with their sharp eyes and deep affection for their leader, swiftly recognized Irene, setting off a tidal wave of excitement throughout the fandom.

In a bold declaration, 2aN officially unveiled Irene as their new muse, capturing the hearts of fans worldwide. Within hours of the announcement, products featuring Irene as a model began flying off the shelves, with several items quickly selling out.

Notably, these products not only dominated 2aN’s website but also made a significant impact on the popular Japanese online store Qoo10. Irene’s modelling prowess has once again proven its undeniable power in influencing consumer choices and capturing the imagination of fans and beauty enthusiasts alike.

Irene’s reemergence in the realm of beauty endorsements has ignited immense enthusiasm among fans and beauty aficionados alike, reaffirming her enduring influence in the industry. Irene’s ability to captivate and inspire continues to shine brightly, making her a sought-after figure in the world of fashion and cosmetics, and her fans couldn’t be more thrilled to see her back in action.

In related news, fellow RED VELVET member Seulgi recently renewed her contract with SM Entertainment. This means the group, including their beloved leader Irene, will continue promoting together.

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ATTRAKT CEO Breaks Silence Following Victory Against FIFTY FIFTY

Jeon Hong Joon spoke briefly with the media following his brief victory in the legal battle with FIFTY FIFTY. The ATTRAKT CEO pointed out that his company is going after the person who started the trouble in the first place. Jeon stated that they are focused on seeking justice from The Givers’ Ahn Sung Il.

FIFTY FIFTY Loses Legal Battle Against Own Label

On August 28, a significant legal development emerged as a judge decided to reject an injunction aimed at suspending FIFTY FIFTY’s contract with ATTRAKT. This decision dealt a substantial setback to FIFTY FIFTY’s claims of mistreatment, effectively indicating that the court found insufficient evidence to substantiate their allegations.

This decision was prompted by reports stating that FIFTY FIFTY had declined to engage in mediation court proceedings. When the group’s legal representative pursued a traditional trial, the judge swiftly dismissed the request. Consequently, the judge’s ruling not only signifies a setback for FIFTY FIFTY’s efforts to break their contract but also underscores the importance of cooperation and adherence to legal processes in resolving disputes of this nature.

ATTRAKT CEO Breaks Silence Following Small Victory

Following the dismissal of the injunction against FIFTY FIFTY’s contract with ATTRAKT, CEO Jeon Hong Joon addressed the media with a brief statement. According to reports from Yonhap News, the CEO disclosed his intention to shift his attention towards pursuing legal action against Ahn Sung Il. The Givers’ head has been accused of orchestrating FIFTY FIFTY’s attempted departure from ATTRAKT. This move signifies ATTRAKT’s commitment to seeking justice in this matter.

Jeon Hong Joon’s statement suggests that ATTRAKT is determined to address the allegations and concerns surrounding FIFTY FIFTY’s contract. They also seek justice for the role of individuals like Ahn Sung Il in this complex situation.

“We have a lot of evidence that points to (Ahn Sung Il’s) tampering. We plan to now focus on the criminal lawsuit against Ahn Sung Il and Director Baek,” Jeon said.

This development underscores the ongoing legal battles and tensions within the entertainment industry. Technically, various parties seek to protect their interests and rights in contract disputes. For now, FIFTY FIFTY are reportedly likely to appeal the decision. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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BTOB Contracts with CUBE Entertainment Expiring in September

BTOB, the popular South Korean boy band, is currently in the spotlight. Several reports revealed that the members’ contracts are set to expire next month. However, it was revealed that their company is hoping that all six members of the idol group will renew their commitment.

MELODYs Wait In Anticipation as BTOB Members’ Prepare For Contract Expiration

Naver reports that the BTOB members’ contracts with CUBE Entertainment are approaching expiration. This development has garnered attention within the industry, and it appears that the contracts of each member will conclude at different times. According to the report, the first one is set to expire next month but did not indicate which member.

Nevertheless, media sources state that the group’s contracts permit them to explore other management options three months prior to the contract’s official end date. Since there is no word from the company, there are speculations about BTOB’s future endeavors.

As of now, no official decisions have been made regarding contract renewals, leaving fans and industry observers in suspense. The possibility of some members choosing to explore new opportunities and others deciding to remain with CUBE Entertainment adds an element of uncertainty to the situation.

BTOB, which made their debut in 2012, has demonstrated their versatility over the years by venturing into various fields, including dramas, variety shows, and musicals. Last year, they marked a significant milestone by celebrating their 10-year anniversary with a memorable concert at Seoul’s KSPO Dome, demonstrating their enduring popularity and influence in the K-pop industry.

Their most recent musical offering, the 12th mini album ‘Wind and Wish,’ was released in May, keeping their dedicated fanbase engaged with their music. As the members contemplate their future paths and the possibility of renewal or branching out into new ventures, the fate of BTOB remains uncertain, and fans eagerly await further updates regarding the group’s future plans.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Newjeans’ ‘Super Shy’ Tops Song of the Summer in TikTok Korea

Short video platform TikTok announced on Friday, August 25, that “Super Shy” of rookie girl group NewJeans is the hottest summer song in South Korea for 2023. 

In a press release, TikTok explained that their list of “Song of the Summer” is based on the total number of videos of audio sources from the collected data in the platform between June to August of this year. The list is also divided into a global list and national list. 

 

For the Top 10 in South Korea, it was NewJeans’s “Super Shythat emerged to have generated the most music-based content. 

Super Shy,” which was released on July 7, is one of the title tracks from the group’s sophomore EP Get Up. 

Additionally, Get Up, which featured a total of six songs, saw NewJeans topping the Billboard 200 chart for the first time. Moreover, they’re the only second female K-pop act to land on the top spot of the Billboard 200, following BLACKPINK. Also, NewJeans’ Get Up and BLACKPINK’s Born Pink album are the only two albums by an all-female act to hit the No. 1 on the Billboard 200 chart in the past 15 years. 

It’s not a surprise then that a single from NewJeans topped the list of TikTok Korea. 

Aside from Super Shy,” only four other songs from Korean acts made it to the list. 

Song of the Summer in TikTok Korea 

Placing third in the list is Queencard” by girl group (G)I-DLE. The song was the title track for their sixth mini-album I FEEL, which was released in May. 

 

Next is the speed up version of the hit “Cupid” by FIFTY FIFTY. Released on February 24, the song went viral and eventually became the highest charting hit by a South Korean girl group in the history of the Billboard Pop Airplay chart.

Although it placed fifth in TikTok Korea’s list, it was fourth in the global list. Additionally, “Cupid” was the only song by a K-pop act that made it in the list. 

 

In ninth place is Seven” by BTS member Jungkook. Also an expected addition given that the explicit version of the digital single has earned a Guinness World Record

“Seven (Explicit Ver.)” logged at least 11.6 million streams each day for its first tracking week. With this, it has set the record for fastest time for a music track by a male artist to reach 100 million streams on Spotify. 

 

Rounding up the list was AEAO” by Korean hip-hop duo Dynamic Duo. The song went viral on TikTok nine years after its release. 

As for the international releases that made it to the list, Mae Stephens’ “If We Ever Broke Up” landed at the second place. 

Other songs in the rankings also include “What It Is (Solo Version)” by American rapper Doechii and “girls like me don’t cry” by Vietnamese-American singer Thuy. 

Japanese group Yoasabi’s “Idol” and singer imase’s “Night Dancer” also made it to the list. 

Featured image: NewJeans shares photo from ‘Get Up’ promotions. Credit: Facebook/NewJeans

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ENHYPEN’s Jungwon Goes Live to Explain a Dream He Had

In the still of the night, when the rest of the world is asleep, dreams weave intricate tales that can leave us bewildered, happy, or sad upon waking. For ENHYPEN‘s Jungwon, one such dream became a topic of discussion, surprising his fans. Jungwon’s dream gave fans a rare glimpse into a K-pop idol’s subconscious mind.

In a recent interaction on Weverse, one fan posted, “Did you appear in my dream today?” Jungwon replied to them with a comment that read, “Oh, right. I also had a dream today. I saw an ENGENE. More accurately, I had a dream where I showed my phone to an ENGENE. Ah, explaining this in text is a bit difficult. Wait a minute.”

He went live and provided a brief explanation of his dream. “So in my dream, an ENGENE appeared,” Jungwon began. “But I’m not sure how it was there or what it was doing. Anyway, you know how you can mirror your phone to the TV, right? So I had this mirroring thing, and I was using my phone like this. The ENGENE was even on the TV in my room. They could see everything on that TV.”

Jungwon recalls being mystified by what was happening. “I don’t know how that happened—like, did they go into my room or something? Anyway, it was my dream, so I’m not sure, but the ENGENE was kind of watching. I was flipping my phone around and the ENGENE was inspecting it. Then they were like, ‘Hey, what’s that over there?’ and pointing at things. I remember saying, ‘Oh, this and that’ to the ENGENE and explaining things to them. I dreamt something like that.”

Jungwon’s dream analyzed

Dreams are deeply personal, influenced by our emotions, experiences, and subconscious thoughts. If we were to interpret Jungwon‘s dream, the presence of an ENGENE might symbolize his connection to his fans, as ENGENE is the fandom name for those who support the BELIFT LAB boy group. The act of mirroring his phone to the TV can be a metaphor for openness and transparency, symbolizing how so much of his life is often on display for the public.

The ENGENE inspecting his phone and watching him could represent the scrutiny or attention public figures often feel. The moment in his dream where the ENGENE points and Jungwon explains things can represent communication and understanding, possibly symbolizing his desire to share aspects of his life with others, especially fans. Overall, his dream revolves around themes of communication, connection, scrutiny, and transparency, potentially reflecting his feelings about his relationship with his fans and the broader public.

For public figures like Jungwon, dreams can also be a reflection of the constant interplay between the personal and the public. Dreams don’t differentiate between a celebrity and an ordinary person; it simply comes up with stories based on the dreamer’s emotions and experiences. And while we may never really grasp the entirety of what our dreams mean, they offer a momentary glimpse into our inner world, reminding us of our fears, hopes, and everything else that shapes our daily lives.

Whether it’s Jungwon‘s dream or yours, these nocturnal tales are a testament to the shared human experience, transcending boundaries and connecting us in the most unexpected ways. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungwon is so grateful to ENGENE for their support. He loves them so much that he even dreamed about them. Source: Twitter/@AsiaEnhypen.

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AKMU’s Suhyun Compares NewJeans To ‘Oshi no Ko’

The talented sibling duo AKMU recently staged a comeback with their track “Love LEE.” They actively participated in various music shows to promote their latest release. For Suhyun, this experience became a golden opportunity to meet and interact with some of the 4th generation idols, with NewJeans being her personal favorite. Remarkably, Suhyun likened the idol group to the beloved Japanese anime “Oshi no Ko,” drawing intriguing parallels between the world of K-pop and the captivating narrative of the anime.

On August 27, 2023, Suhyun took to Weverse to share details about her encounter with NewJeans while filming for “Inkigayo”.

“Firstly, my largest wish for this round of promotions was to watch NewJeans,” she wrote. “After hearing that they would be performing this week at ‘Inkigayo’, I was looking forward to it so much.”

“As I walked around in a sleepy state, someone greeted me,” Suhyun continued. “I greeted them too, and when I saw their faces, it was NewJeans. Holy Moly. My eyes widened to the biggest they’ve been this year, and I was suddenly wide awake. Then, I looked at each and every member carefully. I confessed that I love them.

The AKMU member revealed that she was called away for rehearsals. However, the production team allowed her to finish quickly so she could watch NewJeans performing.

All of their eyes were sparkly like the idols in ‘Oshi No Ko’. They must’ve been so tired, but their freshness was a wall,” Suhyun wrote. “It still lingers with me… Their tiny faces and delicate features as they smiled beautifully at me… To commemorate this, I must listen to all of their songs.”

We can’t really blame Suhyun for gushing about NewJeans. With that in mind, we’re happy for the AKMU member who got to meet her favorite hoobaes at “Inkigayo: last weekend.

AKMU recently dropped their latest single “Love LEE.”

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KARA’s Youngji Officially Announces Solo Debut in September

Mark September 12th on your calendars as an exciting milestone in K-pop! Youngji of KARA is set to make her official solo debut!

Heo Young Ji Confirms Solo Debut With ‘Toi Toi Toi’

Earlier this month, DSP Media teased fans with the news that Youngji was gearing up for this highly anticipated moment. Prior to the update, Heo Young Ji had released solo tracks. However, the KARA member had never embarked on an official solo journey.

In a thrilling midnight revelation on August 28th, Heo Young Ji announced her solo debut date. On September 12th, she will grace the music scene with “Toi Toi Toi.” This announcement was met with tremendous enthusiasm from fans who have eagerly awaited her solo endeavors.

To heighten the anticipation, Heo Young Ji also dropped the first teaser for “Toi Toi Toi,” providing a tantalizing glimpse into her upcoming solo venture. In the teaser poster, Youngji flaunts flowing red hair while wearing a checkered dress, evoking a nostalgic late-summer atmosphere.

Heo Young Ji’s ‘Toi Toi Toi’ teaser

This exciting development marks a significant step in her career, and fans can’t wait to see her shine as a solo artist on the K-pop stage. Stay tuned for what promises to be a remarkable musical journey with Heo Young Ji.

Youngji joined the girl group KARA as the winner of the TV show “Kara Project” in 2014, where she became the group’s latest member. She embarked on her solo music journey in August 2017 with her debut single, “Memory Clock.” Heo Young Ji renewed her contract with DSP Media in August 2021 and intends to continue promoting as a solo artist.

KARA marked their debut in March 2007 with their first studio album, “The First Bloooooming,” featuring the title track “Break It.” Celebrating their 15th anniversary in 2022, members Gyuri, Seungyeon, Nicole, Jiyoung, and Youngji reunited for the EP “Move Again.” The single “When I Move” secured the group’s first music show victory in seven years.

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Kim Woo Bin Pays Tribute to Departed Fan

Aside from his versatility in acting, South Korean actor Kim Woo Bin has also proven how heartwarming as a person he is. 

On Sunday, August 27, he veered away from his usual updates about his acting projects to pen a tribute to a departed fan. 

He shared a photo from an airplane window, as well as a picture of a letter from his fan. In the caption, Woo Bin mourned the passing of Ji Won, one of the owners of his fansites. 

According to the actor’s post, he just attended her funeral. And it was in that moment that he realized the lengths she went through just to show her support for him. 

“Now, I finally understand how far and long the trip must have been each time you came to see me for all those years,” a translation of Woo Bin’s post read. 

 

Moreover, the artist recalled his fond memories with her. “Whenever I’m reminded of your face with a big smile and asking how I’ve been, my heart breaks all over again. I don’t think this is goodbye forever, Ji Won.” 

“Wherever you are, I wish you the happiest and the healthiest days. I hope you get to laugh everyday until we meet again,” he added. 

Next, Woo Bin also disclosed how thankful he is to have a dedicated and supportive fan like Ji Won. In the future, the actor said that he’ll remember her in his upcoming works. 

“I’ll keep you in my thoughts when I work on the shows that you’ve been looking forward to. You’ll give me the strength to go on, so please keep looking over me,” he said. “I promise we’ll meet again someday.”

Ji Wons family reacts

Woo Bin’s heartwarming tribute didn’t go unnoticed by Ji Won’s family. 

In the comments section, the fan’s younger sister Ji Su revealed that the actor also sent flowers and condolence money aside from going to the funeral. 

“To have you come to the funeral was the sincerest condolence you could’ve paid for us. My parents and I all found the strength to go on, thanks to you,” she told Woo Bin. 

Additionally, Ji Su wrote that her departed sister must have appreciated having the actor in her funeral despite how busy he was. 

She also sent her well-wishes for the actor in terms of his health and career. “I hope you stay healthy and happy, too. Again, thank you so much for staying by my sister’s side.” 

 

Aside from her own sentiments, Ji Su also left another comment on behalf of their parents. 

The parents narrated that they were struggling with Ji Won’s passing, but Woo Bin’s presence in the funeral and his gifts were a huge comfort for them. 

Because of the actor’s actions, they said their family was able to feel a lot better. They added that their daughter is off to a good place now that Woo Bin has sent her off. 

Even though Ji Won had already passed, the family promised that they’ll still continue to support and root for Woo Bin in his upcoming projects. 

In other news, Kim Woo Bin, who is best known for his roles in Black Knight and The Heirs, will star in the Netflix drama Officer Black Belt. He is also confirmed to star in a new variety show from renowned PD Na Young Seok, alongside Lee Kwang Soo, EXO’s DO, and Kim Ki Bang. 

Featured image: Kim Woo Bin updates fans with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Kim Woo Bin

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CARATs Defend SEVENTEEN’s Joshua After His Latest Weverse Post

In the K-pop industry, where an artist’s every move is scrutinized, SEVENTEEN‘s Joshua recently found himself at the center of a storm. A few weeks ago, rumors began circulating about Joshua‘s alleged relationship with model Cho Mi Young. Since then, the artist has maintained a low profile on social media, with only a few messages of support for fellow SEVENTEEN members Seungkwan and S.Coups on Weverse. However, the stark lack of personal updates left fans very worried, especially after Joshua appeared visibly exhausted in public.

On a brighter note, on August 26, Joshua finally broke his silence with a short yet clearly heartfelt post on Weverse. “You’ve worked hard today too, Carats!!” he wrote, a simple yet touching sentiment that, under normal circumstances, would have been seen as just another sweet interaction between an idol and his fans. However, given the recent events, this message held deeper significance.

His post was met with support from the other SEVENTEEN members. Seungkwan responded with a warm, “you worked hard today too, hyung. hongranghae,” while S.Coups expressed his longing with a simple, “I miss you~.” These interactions highlight the close bond and mutual care the SEVENTEEN members share, even in challenging times.

CARATs, the dedicated fans of SEVENTEEN, also didn’t hold back their emotions. Many expressed their relief and happiness to hear from Joshua after his prolonged silence. Tweets came pouring in, with fans sharing their joy and emphasizing how much they missed their beloved idol.

Overwhelming love for Joshua

Unfortunately, not all reactions were positive. A vocal minority criticized Joshua for not addressing the dating rumors and seemingly continuing with his life as usual. Some found it offensive that he appeared content, valuing his privacy, and that his members supported him throughout. Fortunately, the majority of the responses leaned towards support and understanding. Many voiced frustration with the criticism Joshua faced. On various forums, comments overflowed with annoyance towards the haters and overwhelming love for Joshua. The consensus? The criticism he’s received is absurd.

https://twitter.com/yoonieshao/status/1695418708305326232

While the K-pop world can be tumultuous, with allegations of all kinds overshadowing the music, it’s heartwarming to see fans and fellow artists come together in support of someone like Joshua. We join the chorus of well-wishers in hoping that he continues to find strength in the love and support of his fans and fellow SEVENTEEN members. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Around the time he came home to Weverse, a photographer he worked with posted some shots of Joshua. Source: Twitter/@svtcontents.

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