Category: LATEST STORIES

The world of K-pop is often abuzz with rumors, and the latest artist to find himself at the center of such speculations is SEVENTEEN‘s Joshua. Recent whispers suggested a romance between the “SUPER” singer and Instagram model Mi Young. However, CARATs, SEVENTEEN‘s dedicated fans, took it upon themselves to investigate and debunk these rumors.

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Joshua Hong dating rumor….. kakauwi ko lang… paano ba mawalan ng jalosi. pic.twitter.com/VolNiYidC1

— ❃.✮:▹ kahel ◃:✮.❃ (@GoGrowGlowmovon) August 7, 2023

The rumors were fueled by netizens who noticed similarities in Joshua and Mi Young‘s Instagram activities. They highlighted pictures both posted showcasing the same things, suggesting they were “couple items.” These items ranged from accessories to bags, jackets to phone cases. The volume of these shared items led many to believe in a possible relationship.

A deep dive into the claims

Diving deeper into the claims, fans found that the denim CK jacket both Joshua and Mi Young wore in their photos were promotional. Joshua expressed gratitude to CK for his jacket, while Mi Young’s was bought by the photographer who took her photo. Moreover, the times of their posts didn’t line up or match. They were notably different.

Another point of contention was their photos from Seoul Forest Park. While Mi Young was spotted at a pub near Han River on the night of July 6th, Joshua‘s photo from the park was posted at 3:00 PM on the same day, suggesting they weren’t together at the time.

Further examination revealed that the white abrasion marks on their airport clothes, which some believed to be signs of shared clothing, were part of the items’ official tie-dye design. Additionally, while some netizens thought they had taken couple photos on Jeju Island, again, the timelines didn’t match. Mi Young went to Jeju Island in February 2021, while Joshua made his trip in March 2022. 

The brown jacket saga was another exciting twist. On December 2, Joshua was in Nagoya, while Mi Young was in Tokyo on December 1 and 3, indicating they were in different places wearing different jackets.

Their phone cases became another topic of debate. Joshua had been seen using his bunny case in 2021, while Mi Young used hers in March 2022. As for the beaded accessories, Joshua‘s necklace turned out to be a branded item, not a handmade couple’s necklace. Mi Young wore something like it only twice in September 2020.

Joshua deserves privacy and respect

One of the more intriguing revelations was that a group had been planning these rumors for months. They began on Chinese websites and later transitioned to Twitter, attempting to gain traction for their fabricated stories. Despite the swirling rumors, fans have rallied behind Joshua, emphasizing that he, like anyone else, deserves love and privacy. The overarching sentiment is clear: even if he were dating, it’s his personal life, and fans should respect that boundary. 

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like joshua left them with 5 children just bc the antis keep on brainwashing them saying he doesnt even go online bc of his gf or he is not practicing bc he spends time with his gf. This is not just a funny rumor where people can laugh and make meme. They even plan to bombard

— nef 🔮 (missing joshua) (@randomshua) August 8, 2023

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Joshua does not deserve to be witchunt by those stupid antis

— nef 🔮 (missing joshua) (@randomshua) August 8, 2023

In the midst of all this, Joshua‘s contributions to SEVENTEEN and the K-pop industry in general shine through. Known for his incredible vocals, striking visuals, and politeness, he has been a beacon of talent and dedication since SEVENTEEN‘s debut in 2015.

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Joshua Hong who is a talented man, serving hard since debut. Joshua who is one of the funniest svt members. Joshua who said we can depend on him like how svt depends on him. Joshua who is one of svt’s pillars.

Now if you’re unstanning just bc of a dating rumor, shame on you.

— jelly; (@leechanranghae) August 7, 2023

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if u rly want to stop being joshua’s fan just bec of this issue, then fcking go. we don’t need ppl like u sa fandom. if ur a real joshushushu you’ll never doubt his work ethics. yes it hurts for me to see these dating rumors pero its not enough reason para idrop and ibash sya on…

— saeᯓ (@saethename_) August 8, 2023

While the K-pop world is no stranger to rumors, it’s nice to see fans rally in defense and support of their idols. The dedication of CARATs in debunking these speculations underscores the deep bond between them and all 13 members of SEVENTEEN. As always, it’s key to approach such rumors with skepticism and prioritize the well-being and privacy of the artists involved. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Joshua has, by turns, been bashed and defended since the rumors began. Source: Twitter/@pledis_17jp.

In a surprising turn of events, Kyoungyoon, a member of the popular K-pop group DKZ, has officially announced his departure. This decision comes roughly five months after a controversy surrounding his family’s alleged ties to the JMS cult.

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I spent a lot of time thinking about it over the course of five months. After struggling with what was the best option for all the people I cared about, I concluded that I should let DKZ Kyoungyoon go

I hope Aris will understand my choice

— ㅎ (@yoonrangi) August 7, 2023

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Until the day I can stand in front of you again, I hope everyone is healthy and happier than anyone else. And lastly, it was Kyung-yoon, who greeted you through DKZ. Thank you and I love you pic.twitter.com/ol3YVxcAvM

— ㅎ (@yoonrangi) August 7, 2023

 

Earlier this year, Kyoungyoon found himself at the center of a storm after the release of Netflix’s In The Name Of God: A Holy Betrayal. The documentary shone a light on the controversial JMS cult, revealing that Kyoungyoon‘s family had ties to it. They even operated a cafe associated with a church, Youngduk Ju Mideum (Youngduk Trust In God). While the initial response from DKZ‘s label, Dongyo Entertainment, was that Kyoungyoon‘s family was unaware of the church’s ties to the JMS cult, Kyoungyoon later opened up about his personal experiences. He shared harrowing details of being brainwashed and victimized by the cult. Despite being a victim, he faced significant backlash, leading him to issue a personal apology.

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Let's save him until it's not too late, Kyoungyoon deserves the biggest apology from being harrased and threatened while he's also suffering. I can't afford to lose another pure soul :< pic.twitter.com/KVV5umiqkQ

— jae ლ (@dongkizinism) April 20, 2023

The controversy took a toll on Kyoungyoon‘s mental health, prompting him to take a hiatus in April to focus on his well-being. Fans hoped this break would be temporary, but recent developments suggest otherwise. On August 7, Dongyo Entertainment released an official statement on their fan community website. They informed fans that after a period of treatment and recovery, Kyoungyoon had engaged in extensive discussions with the agency about his future. The outcome? Kyoungyoon would be leaving DKZ to fulfill his mandatory military duties later this year.

Kyoungyoon penned a letter to fans

In a heartfelt and handwritten letter accompanying the announcement, Kyoungyoon expressed his feelings to fans. “For the past five months, I spent a lot of time contemplating,” he wrote. “After thinking about what would be the best option for the people I care about, I concluded that I should let go of DKZ’s Kyoungyoon. I hope fans will understand my decision.” He expressed his gratitude for the love and support he received during his time with DKZ.

The news of Kyoungyoon‘s departure has elicited a wave of reactions from fans and netizens. Many took to SNS to voice their feelings, sharing messages of support, love, and hope for Kyoungyoon‘s future. While some expressed their anger, sadness and shock, others understood his decision, given the circumstances.

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the news is so heartbreaking, the day we all fear has come. i hope kyoungyoon is doing well and i respect his decision. i really dont know what to say as i am having mixed emotions rn but i'll definitely wait and continue to support kyoungyoon. we love you, kyoungyoon ❤️

— kaye (@_jongbear) August 7, 2023

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Some idols do the worst shit and continue without any apology while still getting so much support but a victim who has apologized with tears, risked his life to open up for something he was born into and didnt have any control over gets bullied out of his group into the military.

— ren 🐯 D-322 🍉 STREAM LIKE A MOVIE (@Bebi__Munik) August 7, 2023

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I can't do this anymore… stanning dkz is the easiest and at the same time the hardest thing to do 😭😭😭 the boys are the most lovely peaple in the universe so there's no problem in falling in love with them but at the same time my heart gets broken over and over again 😢😢😢

— shunkshu (@shunkshu) August 7, 2023

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#KYOUNGYOON: Would it be enough when I could never give you peace?

Sending hugs to all my moots and to DKZ and Kyoungyoon. I'm so sorry we couldn't protect you, bub. We failed you, and I'll be damned if we failed the rest of them in DKZ. pic.twitter.com/IAfb3zkSsb

— REST. (@sonushiii) August 8, 2023

 

 

As DKZ continues its journey with five members, Kyoungyoon‘s decision to go serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges artists face. His story underscores the importance of mental well-being and the courage to make tough decisions. As he embarks on this new chapter, fans worldwide send their best wishes, hoping to see him return in good health and high spirits. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: He decided to leave after contemplating it. Source: Instagram/@kyoungyoon_dkz.

Lollapalooza, synonymous with music legends and iconic performances, witnessed a historic moment in 2023. TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) became the first K-pop group to headline the festival. 

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[#오늘의TXT] 230805
TOMORROW X TOGETHER in #Lollapalooza 2023

헤드라이너로 다시 함께 한 롤라팔루자!
모아들이 있어서 행복했어요🤍 #투모로우바이투게더 #TOMORROW_X_TOGETHER #TXT #Lolla #Lolla2023 #TXTPALOOZA pic.twitter.com/Y46Zs94Zkx

— TXT OFFICIAL (@TXT_bighit) August 6, 2023

TXT‘s relationship with Lollapalooza is marked by a rapid ascent. Their debut at last year’s festival was already groundbreaking. It made them the first Korean act to grace its stages. This year, they weren’t just participants; they were the main event. 

The Consequence reviewer captured this sentiment: “From a side stage to the main event, TXT‘s journey is a testament to their undeniable talent and the ever-growing appeal of K-pop.”

Thick with anticipation

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So I guess people can line up at 4am for #Lollapalooza…. Well us #TXT fans are gonna have fun on Saturday! 😳😳 #TXTPALOOZA

— Michelle (@mishka_b90) August 3, 2023

The atmosphere at Chicago’s Grant Park was thick with anticipation. Hours before the gates even opened, a sea of fans, known as MOA, could be seen camping outside, some having spent the night to secure a prime spot. Their dedication was evident in the myriad of fan-made merchandise, banners, and glow sticks that shone brightly against the Chicago skyline. 

A dedicated fan named Gabrielle Dance braved the rain to line up outside Lollapalooza’s north gate at 9:30 AM, an hour and a half before the official opening time of 11:00 AM. Dance wasn’t alone in her enthusiasm; approximately 200 others did what she did, hoping to secure a coveted spot at the barricade for the evening’s main event: TXT’s performance.

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my friends and i got there at 5am but it wasn’t a line it was straight up a cluster and everyone in the front was calm but because of the people in the back pushing everyone up front

— mae ♡ beomgyu (@taegyults) August 5, 2023

Block Club Chicago talked to Dance. At 15, her excitement was palpable. Like many others, she had traveled from out of state, drawn to Lollapalooza by the pull of TXT. The significance of the event wasn’t lost on her.

Dance captured the sentiment of many international fans. “With K-pop groups based in Korea, we don’t get a lot of shows here except for, like, world tours. So I think for them to be doing festivals like this just brings more showcases for international fans.” Her words resonated with the diverse crowd, emphasizing the event’s significance as a testament to K-pop’s global appeal and reach.

The Lollapalooza 2023 performance

TOMORROW X TOGETHER Live at Lollapalooza 2023

TXT began their set with a fiery rendition of “0X1=LOVESONG (I Know I Love You),” followed by “Dear Sputnik.” The Consequence reviewer said of the opening, “And though the stage was bigger, and the distance between myself and them greater, the dancing looked even more incredible than I remembered. The quintet are all incredible athletes; it’s one thing to see someone jump in a music video, but it’s another thing to watch a normal-seeming person fly into the air. Usually, superhumans are found in movie theaters, not rhythmically levitating in the middle of Grant Park.

The members paused to introduce themselves. Hueningkai initiated a passionate round of barking, a K-pop tradition in the U.S. Overlooking the drenched audience, Yeonjun proclaimed, “The rain can’t stop us. Let’s f*****g enjoy it.” Despite the continuous drizzle, the crowd roared and channeled all its energy into cheering for TXT.

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watching txt at lolla and wdym yeonjun just said fucking

— nat⁷ (@jklovesnat) August 7, 2023

The setlist was a meticulously crafted portrayal of youth, highlighting its various aspects. “Devil By The Window” symbolized flirting with temptation, while “Good Boy Gone Bad” focused on the pain of a first breakup. The latter had an extended dance break, with Beomgyu setting a rose alight and casually tossing it over his shoulder.

The group also touched on the more cheerful aspects of youth. “Thursday’s Child Has Far To Go” had some of their simplest moves, but the smiles on Beomgyu’s, Soobin’s, and Taehyun’s faces made it fun to watch anyway. Their cutest track, “Cat And Dog,” and the unreleased “Blue Spring,” which they first performed on their ACT: SWEET MIRAGE world tour, were also featured.

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Blue Spring – Lyrics (English Translation)

From. TOMORROW X TOGETHER
To. MOA@TXT_members @TXT_bighit pic.twitter.com/w0pGn6SXKr

— TXT Translations 💬 (@translatingTXT) March 25, 2023

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‘blue spring’ crowd sing along at lollapalooza 😭😭😭 pic.twitter.com/QzzQ2m1faX

— TXT Translations 💬 (@translatingTXT) August 6, 2023

 

A heavier sound

Over time, TXT gravitated towards a heavier sound, which the group’s Lollapalooza set made clear. “Wishlist” exuded pop-punk exuberance, with the audience head-banging even as the rain continued to fall. “LO$ER=LO♡ER,” a track that feels liberating when a crowd sings along, kicked that feeling up a notch with a prolonged, exhilarating conclusion. 

The band gave “Can’t You See Me?” a sludgy, strong arrangement. “Lonely Boy,” “Anti-Romantic,” “Farewell, Neverland,” and “No Rules” were also on the setlist.

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i have a new found love for do it like that after lolla

— nia✶༊ (@beombox) August 7, 2023

Even though their Lollapalooza performance took place during their ACT: SWEET MIRAGE world tour, they added fresh elements to the setlist and songs to surprise Chicago. They did a triumphant version of “Magic” that featured an extended dance break and reunited with Coi Leray for “Happy Fools.” They also debuted their new collaboration with the Jonas Brothers, “Do It Like That,” live, even if the American trio didn’t attend. “It would’ve been fantastic if they joined us, but there’s always a next time,” Taehyun said.

As the set drew to a close, Yeonjun described Lollapalooza as a “dream come true.” Taehyun invited the audience to “join us for the remainder of our world tour, our upcoming album, and more exciting ventures.” The group remained on stage for several minutes after their final electrifying number, “Sugar Rush Ride,” expressing gratitude and initiating more barking.

Fan reactions to TXT at Lollapalooza

‘TOMORROW X TOGETHER: OUR LOST SUMMER’ Highlight #1

In the Disney+ documentary, Our Lost Summer, Yeonjun looked back on TXT’s previous Lollapalooza appearance, expressing doubts about whether they deserved to be on the bill. While they disproved that notion in 2022, this headline act affirmed their rightful place in this elevated slot.

The show was a testament to TXT‘s evolution as artists and their prowess in enchanting audiences with their distinctive fusion of youth and rock. Their fans loved the setlist. Their performance was impeccable, their vocals outstanding, and their stage presence undeniably rockstar-like.

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bro this made me tear up.. every single person there moving their phones or light sticks.. and the stream didn't even show the crowd from this pov most of the time so seeing this made me emotional 🥹
pic.twitter.com/iVoei18KNM

— steph ♡ (@jjuniespriv) August 7, 2023

The bond between TXT and their fans, MOA, is profound. This connection was palpable throughout the show. MOA was a pivotal part of the spectacle, from synchronized fan chants to the ocean of light sticks.

TXT‘s Lollapalooza 2023 performance wasn’t a mere concert; it celebrated music, culture, and art’s power to bring people together. People will remember this moment when music broke barriers and a K-pop band captured the hearts of audiences worldwide. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: TXT’s set made history and their fans are proud. Source: Twitter/@txt_bighit.