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Look: Pledis Entertainment Launches ‘Wonder Teens’ Global Audition

SEVENTEEN releases special video for 'April Shower.' Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

PLEDIS Entertainment, home to K-pop groups SEVENTEEN and fromis_9, is on the lookout for their next idol superstars!

On Friday, August 25, the agency announced that they’re launching their Wonder Teens global audition. 

Only individuals born after 2005 can audition. However, it is open to any gender and nationality. 

 

Additionally, those who plan to audition can apply in four categories: vocal, rap, dance, and “confidence.” According to their website, the confidence category is open to anyone who can “showcase their talent and ability.” 

“Based on the creativity and know-how to make dreams of performing at a global stage a reality, we are looking for the stars of the future,” PLEDIS Entertainment said in a press release.

The online auditions will run until September 17. Aspiring idols need to send their entries and fill the form through PLEDIS Entertainment’s website. 

Those who will pass the first round of auditions will be notified of the results within two weeks. Then, they’ll have to go through a second set of auditions, which will be conducted in person or through a live call. 

Moreover, this isn’t the first time that PLEDIS Entertainment opened their Wonder Teens global audition. In 2022, the agency held online auditions from March 18 to April 17 for individuals born after 2003. 

Reportedly, successful applicants from the audition will be accepted as trainees under PLEDIS Entertainment and will be awarded a scholarship. 

Back then, it was also reported that the agency is set to debut a new group in 2023. However, the agency has yet to confirm this. 

 HYBE’s new set of idols

Currently, PLEDIS Entertainment only have SEVENTEEN and fromis_9 as the active groups under their roster. 

However, the agency was also home to After School, NU’EST, and PRISTIN. PRISTIN disbanded in May 2019, while NU’EST disbanded in March 2022.

Although NU’EST has disbanded, members Hwang Min-hyun and Baekho stayed with Pledis Entertainment and pursued solo careers. 

 

Interestingly, PLEDIS Entertainment is also a subsidiary label of HYBE. Other record labels under HYBE include BIGHIT Music, ADOR, Source Music, and KOZ Entertainment. Recently, HYBE also acquired BELIFT LAB, ENHYPEN’s agency. 

Aside from PLEDIS Entertainment, BIGHIT Music and KOZ Entertainment have also launched their online auditions. 

BIGHIT Music’s audition program is only open to male applicants born between 2005 and 2013. It will close on September 22. Meanwhile, auditions for KOZ Entertainment will run until November 18. Only individuals born after 2006 can apply. 

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases special video for ‘April Shower.’ Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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Verivery Sends off Dongheon for His Military Enlistment

VERIVERY members were present when leader Dongheon enlisted. Credit: Twitter/VERIVERY

Lee Dongheon of K-pop boy group VERIVERY officially started his mandatory military service on Monday, August 28. 

While the exact time and location of his enlistment were kept private, the group’s official social media accounts also shared photos of the group accompanying Dongheon in his enlistment. 

In the photos, Dongheon, who is now sporting a military buzz cut, is surrounded by his members. “As he receives a sendoff from his lovable younger members, [we] wait for Dongheon to return in good health and even greater than he is now,” the caption read.

Present are members Hoyoung, Gyehyeon, Yeonho, Yongseung, and Kangmin in his send-off. 

 

On August 23, the idol announced his enlistment date, saying that he’ll fulfill his military service as an active duty soldier. However, Jellyfish Entertainment has first confirmed in April that Dongheon will be enlisting before 2023 ends. 

As the leader and oldest member of the group, Dongheon is the first member of VERIVERY to enlist. 

VERRER’s well-wishes for Dongheon

Since Dongheon announced his enlistment plans, he’s been updating their fans about his preparation. 

First, he penned a letter to VERRERs, promising that he’ll return safely. 

https://twitter.com/bhlhjl/status/1694255125765001534

 

“Although you can’t see me on stage for some time, in anticipation for a better Heoni, please wait for me. Just how you do now. Even in time and place where I’m not present, I hope our VERRERs are happy and do well,” he said. 

https://twitter.com/bhlhjl/status/1694255125765001534

 

A day before his enlistment, Dongheon also held a livestream wherein he said goodbye to fans and showed his haircut. 

“Don’t worry. Nothing is different than what we have now, VERRERS. Other than the length of my hair, nothing else has changed. So don’t be too worried and don’t be too sad. Just stay how you are right now, okay?,” he said. 

https://twitter.com/bhlhjl/status/1695817281341927695

 

In addition to that, videos of the idol in his military camp also circulated on social media, wherein he was seen talking to fans. 

“Don’t cry. I will cry too. I will come back healthy. Thank you for coming. But no, I told you not to come,” he was seen telling VERRERs.

https://twitter.com/bhlhjl/status/1696025683473150289

 

In turn, fans took to social media to express their well-wishes for Dongheon as he begins his military service. 

VERIVERY debuted as a seven-member act in January 2019 with the EP Veri-Us. The group is known for songs “Tag Tag Tag,” “Trigger,” Super Special,” and “Thunder.”

In 2020, VERIVERY participated in Mnet’s reality television series Road to Kingdom, wherein they finished in fifth place. 

Featured image: VERIVERY members were present when leader Dongheon enlisted. Credit: Twitter/VERIVERY

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Boy Group OMEGA X Involved In Yet Another Controversy

The K-pop scene is no stranger to scandals, and OMEGA X, a promising boy band, is currently at the epicenter of one. Less than a year after their last controversy, the 11-member group is dealing with another one, putting their reputation and future at risk.

Seven months ago, OMEGA X parted ways with Spire Entertainment. Now, the latter is saying that the former conspired with their new agency, IPQ Entertainment, to pre-terminate their exclusive contract—a serious offense known as artist tampering. This information came to light when a K-pop YouTuber called In Ji-woong drew parallels between OMEGA X and another group, FIFTY FIFTY, who faced similar accusations.

원조 피프티 오메가X의 거짓말 밝힙니다

The word “tampering” comes from sports, where teams secretly persuade athletes from rival teams to join them. Though not illegal, the entertainment industry considers it a very foul thing to do. The FIFTY FIFTY case, where the “Cupid” hitmakers allegedly tried to sign with Warner Music Korea in secret, mirrors the accusations against OMEGA X.

The situation became escalated when In Ji-woong and journalist-turned-YouTuber Lee Jin-ho engaged in a public spat. While the former sided with Spire Entertainment and its ex-CEO Kang Seong-hee, the latter defended IPQ Entertainment and its CEO, Yoon Hye-young. Kang maintains she was unjustly portrayed as abusive, while Yoon counters that Kang’s violent tendencies towards OMEGA X were court-verified.

이진호 기자가 피프티 피프티는 까고 오메가x는 옹호하는 이유

OMEGA X and their tumultuous journey

OMEGA X’s journey has been quite tumultuous. The 11-member boy group, consisting of Hangyeom, Hyuk, Hwichan, Jaehan, Jehyun, Junghoon, Kevin, Sebin, Taedong, Xen, and Yechan, debuted under Spire Entertainment in June 2021. They moved to IPQ Entertainment after allegations surfaced of physical and sexual violence by Spire’s CEO. This switch was marked by a fan-released recording, capturing a heated altercation between member Jaehan and Spire’s Kang during their U.S. tour.

Adding another layer to this issue, some claim that OMEGA X members intentionally provoked Kang to capture her outbursts as evidence to justify their departure. Furthermore, there are allegations that they had been in discussions with IPQ Entertainment, previously known as Picturesque, before these controversies. Picturesque, known for producing erotic films, had produced a boys’ love drama featuring OMEGA X members Jaehan and Yechan. The drama’s postponement due to the members’ involvement in the controversy led IPQ to step in.

OMEGA X (오메가엑스) | 2nd Debut Anniversary Mini Fan-Meeting Behind Clip

The broader issue highlighted by this is the standard seven-year exclusive contracts that artists typically sign with their agencies. Established in 2009, following a dispute involving boy band TVXQ, these contracts are now seen as outdated and skewed in favor of artists. Industry insiders, like Lee Nam-kyung of the Korea Management Federation, are advocating for revisions to protect companies from situations like tampering.

Despite all the back-and-forth, both IPQ and Spire Entertainment want to resolve things as soon as possible. Meanwhile, OMEGA X will drop new material by year’s end. As fans await the band’s next move, the industry grapples with the implications of these events. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Despite this new controversy, the group remains committed to their fans and their work. They recently held a concert in Japan. Source: Twitter/@OmegaX_jp.

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BAE173’s Bit Temporarily Halts Activities Following Scooter Accident

BAE173 member Bit is taking a break following a scooter incident that sent him to an emergency room

BAE173’s BIT will be temporarily stepping away from his activities due to a scooter accident. The group’s agency confirmed his hiatus. In addition to that, the company shared details about BIT’s injury.

Pockedol Studio Shares Surprising Update on BIT’s Scooter Incident

On August 28th, Pocketdol Studio shared a statement on BAE173’s official fan cafe. According to the statement, BIT’s unfortunate incident occurred in the early hours of August 27th when he collided with a scooter. The incident led to a 2 cm long scalp laceration.

“In the early morning of August 27, member BIT collided with a scooter during his personal schedule and headed straight to the emergency room, where he received emergency treatment for a 2 cm long cut on his scalp. He also received a CT scan for a potential head injury,” the statement read.

Consequently, BIT’s health and well-being require priority attention, prompting this temporary hiatus.

“As a result, BIT will suspend his schedule for the time being and focus on treatment and recovery,” the statement continued. “We ask for fans’ understanding for not being able to attend the Macau concert on September 3. We sincerely apologize for causing concern with the sudden news.”

The news has garnered concern and support from fans, who wish BIT a speedy recovery during this challenging time. While the exact duration of his hiatus remains undisclosed, BAE173 enthusiasts eagerly anticipate his return to the stage once he has fully recuperated.

The group’s agency, Pocketdol Studio, assures fans that they will closely monitor BIT’s recovery progress, ensuring that he receives the necessary care and time to heal.

BAE173 debuted on November 19, 2020, with their first EP “Intersection: Spark”. The group originally had nine members group. However, Dohyon was removed from the group on June 22, 2023, following the contract termination. Their current lineup includes J-Min, Hangyul, Yoojun, Muzin, Junseo, Youngseo, Doha and BIT.

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Look: Fantasy Boys Drops Promo Schedule for ‘New Tomorrow’

FANTASY BOYS drops first teaser for debut album 'New Tomorrow.' Credit: Twitter/FANTASY BOYS

Mark your calendars because upcoming rookie group FANTASY BOYS is gearing up for the release of their highly-anticipated debut album NEW TOMORROW. 

On Monday, August 28, the boy group unveiled its timetable for their first mini-album. According to the scheduler, they will be releasing various concept photos, track list, and music video teasers. 

They will also have a special performance on September 16 as a treat to their fans. However, details about this supposed special day have not been disclosed. 

All activities will lead up to the group’s debut showcase on September 21. Meanwhile, preorders for the album NEW TOMORROW begins on September 1. 

In addition to the timetable, FANTASY BOYS also shared a still-cut from their music video, showing the 11 members posing by the beach. 

Other details, such as the number of tracks and title song, about NEW TOMORROW have yet to be disclosed.

Initially a 12-member group, FANTASY BOYS was formed through an MBC global audition program.

However, Pocketdol Studios recently announced that leader Yu Jun Won would no longer debut with the group.

Now, FANTASY BOYS is only made up of members Hikari, Hikaru, Hong Sung Min, Kaeden, Kang Min Seo, Kim Gyu Rae, Kim Woo Seok, KSoul, Lee Han Bin, Lingqi, and Oh Hyeon Tae. 

Yu Jun Won’s departure from FANTASY BOYS 

On August 23, Pocketdol Studios revealed that Yu Jun Won is no longer part of FANTASY BOYS’ lineup.

According to the agency, Jun Won has been removed from the group due to his “unauthorized departure.” The label added that the idol’s parents also requested to modify the contract several times. 

However, the artist also aired his own sentiments, saying that Pocketdol Studios lied about certain matters in their statement. 

According to Jun Won, instead of editing some unfavorable clauses in the contract, Pocketdol Studios instead attempted to force an agreement after adding more ridiculous demands. 

Because of this, Jun Won reasoned out that he has lost trust with the company. And it was this that made him decide not to continue his relationship with PocketDol Studios. He said that although it’s his dream to debut as an idol, he can’t do that under the said agency.

Currently, the legal battle between the two sides continues even though the label tries to promote FANTASY BOYS’ debut. Meanwhile,  Jun Won has also called for entertainment agencies to treat their artists better and the practice of unfair contracts to be fixed. 

Despite no longer pushing through with the group, Jun Won still asked fans to continue their support for the 11 members of FANTASY BOYS. 

Featured image: FANTASY BOYS drops first teaser for debut album ‘New Tomorrow.’ Credit: Twitter/FANTASY BOYS

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MONSTA X’s Hyungwon Updates Solo YouTube Channel

The MONSTA X member also dropped the first video on his new YouTube channel

Hyungwon has finally updated his solo YouTube channel. Although the channel didn’t have any content for some time, the MONSTA X member finally surprised fans with his first video. Interestingly, it looks like the idol will be filming a new series that will be updated regularly.

Hyungwon Finally Shares First Video on Solo YouTube Channel

MONSTA X’s Hyungwon recently surprised his fans by adding a link to his official YouTube channel in his Instagram bio. This new YouTube channel “lifewithoutaplan” made its debut on July 28, 2023. Within a relatively short period, the channel has already garnered more than 41,000 subscribers, with its subscriber count steadily increasing.

The channel’s first video was released on August 25, 2023, offering viewers a glimpse into Hyungwon’s leisurely day, potentially during a hiking excursion. MONBEBEs, as the fans are affectionately known, are buzzing with excitement and curiosity.

Many are eagerly anticipating what this channel will have to offer, speculating that it might provide insights into Hyungwon’s evolving interests and share behind-the-scenes moments from his life. While specific details about the channel’s future content direction are still scarce, one thing is clear – the anticipation among fans is palpable and steadily building.

Givenchy Beauty announced that Hyungwon of MONSTA X is their new brand ambassador. A representative for the brand explained that he was the perfect choice to be their ambassador.

“Hyungwon has a strong influence as a global K-pop artist beyond Korea,” they said. “His charm matches with the direction of Givenchy Beauty, which is why we selected him as our official model. We expect Hyungwon to create positive synergies with our brand as the male beauty market expands.”

Prior to this revelation, Hyungwon joined forces with Shownu to form MONSTA X’s first sub-unit. Together, they released the EP titled [THE UNSEEN] on July 25, 2023, which showcased five captivating tracks: “Love Me A Little,” “Love Therapy,” “Roll With Me,” “Play Me,” and “Slow Dance.”

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SHINee’s Minho Gives DynamicDuo First Viral TikTok Video

Occasionally, the world comes to a standstill, captivated by a singular presence. Presently, it’s none other than SHINee’s Minho who’s causing heads to turn and screens to light up on TikTok. The reason? His irresistible charisma combined with a classic song by DynamicDuo is setting the platform abuzz. Amazingly, the new video has already gained over 14 million views!

SHINee’s Minho Goes Viral on TikTok For Lip-Syncing Classic DynamicDuo Track

Minho has taken TikTok by storm with his mesmerizing lip-sync performance to DynamicDuo and DJ Premier’s “AEAO.” Dressed in a simple black short-sleeved shirt paired with stylish shades and sporting a charmingly tousled hairstyle, the SHINee member exudes casual yet striking allure. The result is a truly enchanting video that epitomizes viral content.

What makes this clip so captivating is not just the catchy track or Minho’s effortless charm—it’s the unbeatable fusion of both elements that has fans in a frenzy.

As of now, this TikTok video, which is posted on DynamicDuo’s account, has amassed a staggering 14 million views and garnered over 2.7 million likes. The comment section is overflowing with admiration from awestruck netizens, totaling more than 10,000 comments, all celebrating Minho’s dashing visuals.

Interestingly, DynamicDuo’s track “AEAO,” initially released in 2015, is enjoying a resurgence in popularity on TikTok, largely thanks to Minho’s endorsement. In fact, for those seeking the song on the platform, Minho’s clip is the first and foremost result, solidifying his status as a trendsetter in the digital realm.

SHINee dropped their eighth studio album “Hard” along with the eponymous lead single on June 26. The group is set to extend their musical journey with upcoming tour dates in Japan commencing in September. Additionally, SHINee is preparing to unveil a documentary film named “My SHINee World” during the same month. This cinematic tribute, celebrating their 15th anniversary, will offer fans an exclusive glimpse into their illustrious career, featuring previously unreleased footage that captures the essence of Shinee’s remarkable journey.

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THE BOYZ’s Sunwoo Explains Why He Told THE B Not To Share ‘Dangerous’ Fan Cam Moment

Sunwoo had a surprising reason why he didn't want THE B to share an awesome moment from a fan cam

Sunwoo made a surprising confession about telling his fans what to do. The member of THE BOYZ recently opened up about asking THE B not to share a particular moment from the group’s concert. According to the idol, he was concerned that his fan had enhanced the image which could lead to disappointment when the truth is revealed. However, it looks like Kim Sun-woo had nothing to worry about.

Sunwoo Makes Unexpected Request To THE B About Infamous Fan Cam Moment

Younghoon, Eric, and Sunwoo from THE BOYZ recently graced the set of “The K-Star Next Door,” hosted by the charismatic TV personality and actor Jonathan Thona. In a lighthearted and candid conversation, the host couldn’t help but delve into some amusing and curious aspects of the members’ personalities.

Younghoon’s distinct fashion choice, particularly his penchant for not wearing pants, became a topic of discussion. Eric’s preference for going shirtless also sparked interest. However, the conversation took a humorous turn when the topic shifted to Sunwoo’s infamous “photoshopped abs” picture.

The host displayed the photo in question, which was captured during their electrifying “THE BOYZ 2ND WORLD TOUR: ZENERATION” concert in Bangkok. Sunwoo, known for his playful nature, decided to clarify his role as the member with the least pronounced muscles within the group. Yet, during the exact moment captured in the fan cam, Sunwoo couldn’t resist flexing to prove that he indeed had some muscles of his own.

Sunwoo then hilariously confessed that he initially believed fans had doctored the image to exaggerate the appearance of his muscles. It wasn’t until later that he realized the photo was unaltered. In a comical twist, he requested THE B not to reveal the original picture if it had been edited because he preferred not to know the unaltered truth.

When Jonathan brought up Sunwoo’s request, the member candidly admitted to making such a plea to fans and playfully suggested that it might be “dangerous” if the actual unedited photo surfaced. This delightful exchange showcased the humor and camaraderie within the group, endearing them even further to their fans.

THE BOYZ recently made their comeback with the track “Lip Gloss” on August 7, 2023.

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GIRLS GENERATION’s Hyoyeon Deletes Slightly NSFW Post

Hyo knows exactly how to deal with malicious comments from haters

Hyoyeon is currently promoting her new single “Picture” and like most idols, she has found interesting ways to catch people’s attention. However, her latest post might be a little too much for some fans. The GIRLS’ GENERATION member posted, then deleted a hilarious and slightly NSFW photo on social media.

Hyoyeon Shares Hilarious and Slightly NSFW Photo for ‘Picture’ Promotion

Hyoyeon recently made her triumphant return with her latest release, “Picture,” following her first solo mini-album, “Deep,” from the previous year. While her comeback had some initial hiccups, things have been running smoothly for the artist during her promotional activities. A remarkable achievement during this period was reaching the number one spot on iTunes charts in multiple countries, a feat that speaks to her widespread appeal as an artist.

As part of her promotional efforts, Hyoyeon has been actively creating various types of content. This includes engaging in the #PictureChallenge alongside fellow promoting idols. However, she surprised her fans with a unique twist in her solo “Picture” challenge. Instead of showcasing dance moves, she filled the video with a collection of her photos, most of which were charming and beautiful.

The unexpected twist came in the form of the final shot, which caught fans off guard. Instead of a typical face shot, Hyoyeon shared a quick snapshot of her own butt.

This was viewed as a playful and surprising way to keep her fans engaged and entertained during her promotional activities. However, the GIRLS’ GENERATION member decided to delete the post.

Kim Hyo-yeon is also widely known as Hyoyeon or DJ Hyo. Her remarkable career began when she made her debut as a member of the renowned girl group GIRLS’ GENERATION in August 2007. The group achieved monumental success as one of the best-selling musical acts in South Korea. She is currently promoting under the name HYO.

HYO’s latest release “Picture” was dropped on August 22, 2023.

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EXO Fans React to Dangerous Chanyeol Stunt in ‘Travel The World On A Ladder’

EXO-Ls are criticizing the producers of 'Travel The World On A Ladder' for endangering Chanyeol

EXO fans have expressed deep concern for Chanyeol. EXO-Ls are lashing out at the production team of the idol group’s new show “Travel the World on a Ladder.” According to fans, the producers placed Chanyeol in a potentially dangerous situation.

Chanyeol Left Blindfolded and Alone On Fenceless Rooftop Terrace for New EXO Show

In one segment of the survival game played by the EXO members, they were blindfolded and transported to undisclosed locations. Alarmingly, Chanyeol was the first to be led to his destination, which was a rooftop terrace lacking protective fencing or barriers.

The inherent danger of blindfolding someone on an unprotected rooftop raised immediate concerns among fans. What added to their distress was the apparent absence of any staff members to supervise Chanyeol. Instead of a camera person, the footage appeared to be captured by a drone.

Chanyeol’s visible discomfort and unease upon realizing his precarious location only heightened fans’ worries. Additionally, it appeared that he had not been informed in advance about the nature of the location, leaving him visibly concerned.

Was Chanyeol Safe in The Latest Episode of “Travel The World On A Ladder”?

The safety of idols is paramount to fans. Moreover, this incident has sparked a fervent discussion regarding the responsibilities of production teams. Fans pointed out that they should be ensuring the well-being of the artists during such shows.

Not surprisingly, EXO-Ls were greatly concerned about Chanyeol being left in a dangerous situation. Some blamed SM Entertainment for the lack of safety. However, others pointed out that it was all the production team’s fault.

For now, Chanyeol and his other group members are safe despite all the danger in the “Travel The World On a Ladder” episode. Hopefully, the production team will be more careful with the EXO members in the upcoming episodes.

EXO’s seventh studio album, titled “Exist,” saw its release on July 10, 2023. Notably, this album marked a significant departure for the group as it was the first one to be promoted with only seven members. The absence of member Kai, currently fulfilling his mandatory military service, and member Lay, engaged in solo endeavors in China, brought about this new dynamic within the group’s promotional activities.

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