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ONEWE’s Dongmyeong and Giuk Team Up for ‘SALTY BOY’ MV

Giuk and Dongmyeong of ONEWE have released the new music video for the subunit's upcoming second album 'XOXO'
Giuk and Dongmyeong of ONEWE have released the new music video for the subunit's upcoming second album 'XOXO'

Dongmyeong and Giuk from ONEWE have unveiled their captivating music video for “SALTY BOY.” The new song is set to be the title track of the ONEWE subunit’s second special album. Interestingly, the video highlights the unique energies of Son Dongmyeong and Lee Giwook.

ONEWE Sub-Unit Drops Official ‘SALTY BOY’ MV

On August 29, the official ONEWE YouTube channel uploaded the “SALTY BOY” music video. It follows Dongmyeong and Giuk as the duo spends time at an isolated roller rink. Needless to say, it creates a fitting backdrop for the song’s sentiment.

“SALTY BOY” serves as the title track for ONEWE’s 2nd special album, ‘XOXO.’ The song delves into the theme of unrequited affection. It perfectly captures the essence of being attracted to someone who appears indifferent or disinterested.

With this release, Dongmyeong and Giuk showcase their musical prowess and storytelling abilities. They manage to draw listeners into the emotional nuances of their track. The accompanying music video adds an evocative visual dimension to the song. It certainly enhances the overall impact of “SALTY BOY” as a compelling addition to ONEWE’s repertoire.

Son Dongmyeong and Lee Giwook, along with drummer Ju Harin, are currently the only active members of ONEWE. Singer Jin Yong Hoon enlisted for military service as an active-duty soldier on July 12, 2022. He was soon followed by guitarist Kanghyun (Kang Hyun Gu) who enlisted as an active-duty soldier on August 2, 2022.

It’s no surprise that Dongmyeong and Giuk decided to form a subunit together. They are best friends who also happen to be the two youngest members of the band. Giuk was formerly known as CyA but RBW Entertainment confirmed he will use his birth name for all official activities starting March 9, 2023.

‘XOXO’ was released on August 29, 2023. The special album contains two unit songs which are “SALTY BOY” and “Omnipresent” by Harin and Giwook.

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Look: Mamamoo’s Hwasa Drops Teaser for Solo Comeback

MAMAMOO's Hwasa in the teasers for her 'I Love My Body' single. Credit: Twitter/P Nation

Mark your calendars because MAMAMOO’s Hwasa is finally making her first solo comeback in almost two years! 

On Tuesday, August 29, the singer announced that she’ll be releasing the digital single “I Love My Body” on September 6. 

In the teaser photos, Hwasa looked alluring in a pink ensemble with her hair styled as in a pinup. Interestingly, she’s posing against a backdrop of vibrant pink bubble letters. 

 

Although additional details about the release have yet to be disclosed, fans are already anticipating the song will be on a more sultry vibe, as based on its concept photos. 

Moreover, the upcoming digital single would serve as Hwasa’s first release under her new agency P NATION. 

It was in June when Hwasa left RBW, the agency who formed K-pop girl group MAMAMOO. In July, she signed with P NATION, the agency established by PSY. 

Other artists under P NATION include Crush, Heize, Penomeco, Swings, and group The New Six (TNX). 

Hwasa as an artist

Hwasa made her debut in June 2014 as a member of the quarter MAMAMOO. 

As a soloist, she debuted in February 2019 with the song “Twit.” In June 2020, she released her solo debut EP Maria and the single album Guilty Pleasure in November 2021.

Outside of being an idol, Hwasa also showcased her wit and charms. She appeared in several variety shows such as HwaSa Show, I Live Alone, and Dancing Queens on the Road. 

 

Additionally, she’s the second member to leave RBW, following Wheein who left in 2021. Only Moonbyul and Solar remain with RBW, but the group assured fans that they’ll continue activities as MAMAMOO. 

In fact, the group released their compilation album I SAY MAMAMOO: THE BEST in 2021 and their 12th mini-album Mic On in November 2022.  

The group also embarked on their MY CON world concert tour. 

Featured image: MAMAMOO’s Hwasa in the teasers for her ‘I Love My Body’ single. Credit: Twitter/P Nation

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RIIZE’s Seunghan Cancels Activities For Health Reasons

Seunghan will not be participating in an upcoming recording for a music show broadcast. The RIIZE member has reportedly cited health reasons for not joining the rest of the idol group in their latest activity. Interestingly, Seunghan’s absence coincides with the recent release of pre-debut photos involving the idol and his suspected girlfriend.

Seunghan Bows Out of RIIZE’s Scheduled Activities Due to Health Reasons

On August 29, SM Entertainment announced that Seunghan will not be attending RIIZE’s pre-recording for Naver’s new music show “NPOP” later in the day. Although a reason was not immediately revealed, fans believed that it had to do with health reasons. Nevertheless, the rest of RIIZE were expected to participate. They will be promoting with the remaining six members.

A source from the agency has since provided some explanation. “Seunghan will be absent due to his poor health condition caused by a cold,” they elaborated.

Although SM Entertainment already shared the reason, people believe it has something to do with a recent post. An anonymous SNS user had shared a series of photos with no known source. They then accused RIIZE member Seunghan of visiting a hotel with an underaged girlfriend during his trainee days.

Both the agency and Seunghan have not addressed the allegations. In the meantime, the RIIZE member is taking his time to recover from his recent health issues.

RIIZE, a seven-member ensemble comprising Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton, recently pre-released the track “Memories” on August 21, achieving the impressive feat of topping the iTunes Top Songs charts in eight regions. The group is now fervently preparing for their eagerly awaited debut, set to occur with the release of their first single album, “Get A Guitar,” scheduled for release on September 4, 2023.

We extend our warm wishes to Seunghan for a swift and complete recovery.

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Meet the 20 Contestants in Hybe X Geffen Records’ ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

HYBE Labels and Geffen Records announce the participants for 'The Debut: Dream Academy.' Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy

K-pop entertainment company HYBE Labels partnered with Universal Music Group subsidiary Geffen Records to create a global girl group through The Debut: Dream Academy show. 

On Tuesday, August 29, the agency revealed the 20 candidates from all over the world who will be competing in the upcoming reality program. 

 

What we know about ‘The Debut: Dream Academy’

These 20 candidates were chosen from over 120,000 applicants from 13 cities across the globe. Also, these young women are aged between 14 to 21. 

Moreover, these candidates come from South Korea, Japan, United States, Australia, Brazil, Philippines, Argentina, Belarus, Sweden, and Slovakia. 

 

HYBE has also been releasing individual photos and profiles of the participants. As well as feature films showing the whole group. 

 

The audition program will air on Youtube and the Japanese streaming platform Abema starting on September 1. Over the course of 12-weeks, these 20 participants will undergo a series of survival missions.

Interestingly, fans can also help determine which of the candidates will make it to the US-based international group through online voting. 

 

The finale will air live on November 17, wherein they will announce the final lineup and the girl group’s name. 

Aside from the audition program, a Netflix docuseries chronicling the creation of this upcoming global girl group will also be in the works. It will be helmed by award-winning filmmaker Nadia Hallgren. And it is expected to be released sometime in 2024. 

HYBE goes global 

The entertainment company behind K-pop superstar BTS teamed up with the US label back in November 2021. 

“I have wanted to form an international group based on K-pop methodology for a while,” HYBE Chairman Bang Si-Hyuk told the press. 

For his part, Geffen A&M Records CEO John Janick also shared that they’re looking forward to this venture.  “Each candidate is incredibly talented, dedicated, and driven, making this an exciting moment for music fans around the world,” he added. 

Aside from The Debut: Dream Academy, one of the subsidiaries of HYBE Label is also holding a survival program for a girl group. Titled R U Next, the winning participants from the program will debut under BELIFT LAB. 

Moreover, several HYBE Label subsidiaries are holding global 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. 

Next is the most recently announced audition for PLEDIS Entertainment. Only individuals born after 2005 can audition, and it will run only until September 17.

Featured image: HYBE Labels and Geffen Records announce the participants for ‘The Debut: Dream Academy.’ Credit: Twitter/Dream Academy

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“The Idol” Featuring Blackpink’s Jennie Canceled After 1 Season

BLACKPINK's Jennie stars in HBO series 'The Idol.' Credit: Facebook/HBO

HBO Originals The Idol featuring BLACKPINK member Jennie will no longer be returning for another season. 

On Tuesday, August 29, HBO announced that the star-studded series has been canceled after its first season.  

 

“The Idol was one of HBO’s most provocative original programs, and we’re pleased by the strong audience response. After much thought and consideration, HBO, as well as the creators and producers have decided not to move forward with a second season. We’re grateful to the creators, cast, and crew for their incredible work,” an HBO spokesperson told the media in a press release.

Co-created by Euphoria director Sam Levinson and “Blinding Lights” singer The Weeknd, The Idol made its premiere on June 4. 

The axed series also starred The Weeknd, who goes by Abel Tesfaye in his acting ventures, Lily-Rose Depp, Dan Levy, Rachel Sennott and other well-renowned Hollywood actors.

 

Despite the promising lineup of cast and intriguing plot, the controversial show received poor ratings from the viewers. The series garnered only a 19% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

HBO also only released viewing data for its first episodes. While the premiere episode was reportedly watched by 913,000 people, its second episode had a 12% decline, dipping only to 800,000 viewers. 

Additionally, the first season, which was supposedly a six-episode run, concluded earlier with just five episodes. 

Jennie on Her Acting Debut

Jennie has expressed her fascination about the series, which marked her acting debut, as it was about the music industry. “I thought I could bring something to the role,” she mentioned in an interview. .

 The singer also revealed that she has been admiring Sam Levinson’s works for a long time. She added that she trusted the director to be collaborative with their work.

 

Additionally, Jennie looked back on her idol journey as she played the role of Dyanne, who she claimed was an “opportunity to be myself and be brave.”

“It’s overwhelming, but I’m grateful and thankful. All of those things at the same time,” the superstar added.

Interestingly, Jennie is the second member of BLACKPINK to venture into acting. Prior to her, Jisoo starred in the Disney+ series Snowdrop. 

Meanwhile, BLACKPINK is gearing up for their BORN PINK world tour finale. YG Entertainment, the girl group’s agency, recently announced that the tour will have its finale on September 16 and 17 at the Gocheok Sky Dome. 

 

This allows BLACKPINK to break history once again, as they become the first K-pop female group to perform at South Korea’s largest indoor hall.

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Jennie stars in HBO series ‘The Idol.’ Credit: Facebook/HBO

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CL Ends Management Partnership with Konnect Entertainment

Former 2NE1 member CL concluded her two-year domestic management partnership with Konnect Entertainment

The collaborative domestic management partnership between the renowned artist CL and Konnect Entertainment has officially concluded. Both CL’s record label Very Cherry and Konnect Entertainment have confirmed the conclusion of their two-year partnership. Although this puts the idol in an uncertain situation, BLACKJACKs are hoping it means new content from the former 2NE1 member.

CL Parts Ways With Konnect Entertainment, Ends Management Partnership

On August 29, Very Cherry shared the news about CL’s domestic management partnership. The record label confirmed that the idol concluded the collaboration with Konnect Entertainment. “The partnership that has prevailed for the past two years has come to an end,” they said.

This partnership, initiated in July 2021, served as a platform for several significant projects, including the promotion of domestic broadcasting activities for ‘ALPHA,’ which marked CL’s debut solo studio album. The collaboration was instrumental in bringing CL’s music to a wider audience during this period.

With the closure of the partnership between CL and Konnect Entertainment, CL is poised to reconnect with her devoted fan base. A representative from Very Cherry, her record label, dropped hints about forthcoming plans,

“We are strategically planning to continue our activities through various forms of partnerships,” they said.

The Future for CL

This suggests that while one chapter closes, CL and Very Cherry are already looking ahead to new and diverse avenues for their artistic endeavors. CL’s fans can anticipate exciting developments as she explores fresh opportunities on her creative journey.

Last year, CL reunited with fellow 2NE1 members Bom, DARA, and Minzy to perform at the 2022 Coachella Festival. This would be the group’s first performance in over six years since the 2015 Mnet Asian Music Awards in December 2015.

In related news, fellow 2NE1 member DARA dropped her first solo album “Sandara Park”. This would be her first album release in South Korea and her first release overall in 14 years since the promotional single “Kiss” in 2009.

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Former WayV Member LUCAS Shows Support for NCT U’s ‘Baggy Jeans’

The former WayV member shared his support for NCT U's latest single 'Baggy Jeans'

Former NCT member LUCAS is voicing his support for NCT U. The former WayV member announced his departure from both the group and sub-unit earlier this year. However, Lucas Wong couldn’t help but show support for his friends. On the other hand, some NCTZENs are not impressed with the gesture.

LUCAS Endorses NCT U’s Latest Single

On August 28th, NCT U unveiled the music video for their latest track, “Baggy Jeans.” The track features the same iconic lineup of members that made “The 7th Sense” a sensation. Taeyong, Doyoung, Ten, Jaehyun, and Mark are officially back and their return caused a wave of excitement among NCTZENs. Not surprisingly, fans have eagerly embraced this new offering from the talented quintet.

With the return of this beloved lineup and their captivating new music, “Baggy Jeans” promises to be another milestone in NCT U’s journey. It is set to unite fans and former members alike in celebration of their artistry.

The positive response to “Baggy Jeans” extends beyond the fanbase, as former WayV member LUCAS also expressed his thoughts on the track via Bubble. This demonstrates the enduring camaraderie and mutual support among NCT members, past and present.

“‘Baggy Jeans’ is too cool, please support it a lot,” LUCAS wrote.

Although it is awesome to see LUCAS supporting NCT U, most fans were not impressed. The messages he posted were featured in an online forum thread, and the overwhelming sentiment in the comments section was clearly disapproving of the idol’s actions. Many expressed irritation at his attempt to insert himself into the “Baggy Jeans” conversation.

Prior to his exit from NCT and WayV, LUCAS had been on hiatus since August 2021. He was initially set to release a new single with fellow WayV member Hendery. However, it was postponed as LUCAS faced controversy over a cheating scandal. He is expected to make his solo debut this year.

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Watch: NCT U Makes Stylish Return With “Baggy Jeans”

"Baggy Jeans" is the second title track to NCT's Golden Age album. Credit: Twitter/NCT

NCT’s revolving sub-unit NCT U finally returned with new music on Monday, August 28, with the release of “Baggy Jeans.” 

Said track is one of the two title tracks of NCT’s fourth studio album Golden Age. The members featured in the sub-unit’s performance are Taeyong, Mark, Doyoung, Jaehyun, and Ten. 

 

Meanwhile, the other title track, “Golden Age,” was led by all 20 members of the group. Its cinematic music video was also released days ahead of the album. 

 

Aside from the two title tracks, Golden Age also has eight other tracks. The list  includes “Call D”, “PADO”, “The BAT”, “Alley Oop”, “That’s Not Fair”, “Kangaroo”, “Not Your Fault”, and an interlude track “Oasis.” 

Moreover, GOLDEN AGE serves as NCT’s first full group comeback in more than a year and a half. Their last was the studio album Universe that was released in December 2021. 

NCTzens misses NCT U

What really made “Baggy Jeans” special is that it marks the sub-unit’s first comeback in seven years. NCT U last came together in 2016 with their debut track “The 7th Sense.”

 

After the music video dropped, fans brought their sentiments to the social media where they shared how addicting the song is. Even the comment section is also packed with positive comments as fans enjoy the unit’s new music.

“Finally NCT U’s unit comeback again with an iconic song and choreography! The music video is also unique! I love it,” one fan commented. 

 

The whirlwind of activities in NCT Universe 

Prior to the release of Golden Age, the act also held their first-ever offline concert as a full group titled NCT Nation: To The World. The members carefully curated a 40-song setlist, including the live performances of their latest titles “Baggy Jeans” and “Golden Age”.

After their South Korean stop, NCT will take the tour to Osaka and Tokyo in Japan.

 

Additionally, NCT 127, another NCT subunit, also announced that they’re making a comeback in October with their fifth full-length album Fact Check. 

Earlier this month, NCT also announced four upcoming releases from its NCT LAB project. This includes a solo track titled “Horizon” by Jaehyun, which was already released. 

 

Other upcoming songs include a duet by Taeil and Haechan, a solo track by Kun, and another unit song by Kun, Xiaojun, Renjun, and Chenle. For those unfamiliar, NCT LAB is a SM STATION series which allows the members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks.

As of writing, NCT has a total of five subunits: NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, NCT U, and NCT DoJaeJung. However, SM Entertainment earlier confirmed that they’re forming the group’s last sub-unit, NCT Tokyo. 

Through the reality survival series NCT Universe: Lastart, a six-member boy group will be formed. 

Featured image: “Baggy Jeans” is the second title track to NCT’s Golden Age album. Credit: Twitter/NCT

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Finally! BTS’ V Releases 3 Older Solo Songs on Streaming Platforms

BTS' V poses for 'Layover' concert photos. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music

Ahead of his solo album release, BTS member Kim Taehyung, who goes by his stage name V, dropped three of his previous solo songs on official streaming platforms. 

On August 28, the artist’s company BIGHIT MUSIC, shared that “Scenery”, “Winter Bear”, and “Snow Flower” are now available worldwide via streaming platforms Spotify and Apple Music. 

South Korean fans can also stream these songs via Melon, Genie, VIBE, FLO, and Bugs.

 

Prior to this, these songs were only previously available on Youtube and SoundCloud.

V released his first self-composed track “Scenery” in January 2019, followed by his first English song “Winter Bear” later that year. 

During the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic in 2020, V prepared the track “Snow Flower’‘ as a Christmas gift to his fans. “Snow Flower” also featured rapper and V’s close friend, Peakboy.

Fans react excitedly over these releases

Unsurprisingly, ARMYs are ecstatic that several of V’s solo songs are now on official streaming platforms. 

“I feel happy, I feel blessed. These songs always make me feel warm inside and I am glad that they are finally available on streaming platforms”, one fan wrote.

Meanwhile, others’ comments varied from: “Been waiting forever for this” to “I used to dream of days like this.” 

 

Some also recalled how much these songs meant to them. And how the release on streaming platforms will make it easier for them to listen to the tracks. 

 

Several fans also pointed out that it’s a genius move to release it ahead of V’s solo album as it hype up fans with the idol’s expanding discography. 

In addition to these three songs, V also has three other solo songs that are available on streaming platforms. They are “Sweet Night,” “Christmas Tree,” and “It’s Definitely You.” 

Ready for V’s Layover? 

The release of these tracks are about a week ahead of the singer’s debut solo album Layover, which will be out on September 8. 

His upcoming solo debut album will have a total of six songs, with“Slow Dancing” being the title track.  Meanwhile it’s B-side tracks are titled “Rainy Days”, “Blue”, “Love Me Again”, and “For Us”. 

Ahead of the album’s release, V already dropped the music videos for tracks “Love Me Again” and “Rainy Days.” 

BIGHIT MUSIC has also earlier confirmed that Layover has been made in collaboration with art director and ADOR CEO Min Hee-Jin. 

V is the latest BTS member to make a solo release. Since June 2022, the K-Pop sensations have been embarking on their solo projects after announcing their group hiatus. 

Featured image: BTS’ V poses for ‘Layover’ concert photos. Credit: Twitter/BIGHIT Music

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TXT’s Hueningkai Touches Base With MOA In Latest Live Broadcast

Hueningkai of TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) recently took to Weverse, offering fans a candid glimpse into his life, thoughts, and more. This live stream served as an intimate bridge between the K-pop idol and MOA, revealing facets of his personal and professional lives.

When he began the session, Hueningkai mused about the fleeting nature of summer, saying, “Hello! I just wanted to chat today. We had dance practice and a video call fansign. I started this stream right after it ended. Are you still at school even though it’s 9:00 PM? Oh, you’re coming from an after-school academy? I see. The new semester begins tomorrow, right? I can’t believe the summer break is almost over. It’s August 23 already, and fall is approaching. This summer was particularly hot.”

Pondering over his weekend plans, he sought drama recommendations, revealing, “What should I do this weekend? I might spend it practicing or catching up on dramas. Is there anything I should do? Give me recommendations! I see comments recommending The Uncanny Counter and Zombieverse. I haven’t watched Elemental yet; I feel like I’m just going to wait till it’s out on Disney+.”

Music is a significant part of his life

His excitement was palpable as he showcased a new phone case, saying, “I have something I want to show off: a new phone case with a cute bunny design. It was so adorable that I had to buy it. I’ve also changed my phone to a Samsung 23 Ultra in cream color, which is essentially the white version. Before this, I had a green phone. For my birthday, Yeonjun-hyung gave me clothes as a present. I should wear them and show you all later. Thank you for the gift, hyung!”

Music remains a significant part of Hueningkai’s life. He shared, “The drum set arrived at the dorm! Taehyun and I plan to set it up later today. Lately, I’ve been playing the guitar. Honestly, given the opportunity, I’d prefer to do a guitar live session over a piano one. I’ve never done a guitar live session before, have I?” 

He also mentioned Soobin‘s taste in music, saying, “Soobin-hyung is still listening to that Elemental OST. Even after we returned to Korea, he plays it every time we’re in the car. As soon as we get in, I hear Lauv‘s voice. I wonder if he plays it on purpose when I’m around. Maybe I should pick a song to play whenever he’s near. I could choose the ‘Mix n’ Max’ song and dance energetically whenever he’s with me.”

Hueningkai on languages and his MBTI

Reflecting on his personality, he shared insights into his MBTI results and evolving nature, “About two to three years ago, during the pandemic, I took the MBTI test and got ISTJ. However, I was certain I wasn’t a ‘J’. I think I’m an ISTP. I believe Taehyun influenced my shift from ‘F’ to ‘T’. How did I become introverted? I remember being extroverted until elementary school. I was always initiating conversations. But as I got older, I became more reserved. I began to like staying indoors. I feel healed when I’m at our dorm.”

Hueningkai also talked about his plan to study languages. His admiration for his father’s linguistic prowess was evident. He said, “I’ve developed an interest in languages recently. My dad is fluent in many languages, which I find so impressive. When I listen to him talk, I tell myself, ‘I can do it too!’ However, sometimes I doubt myself. I make an effort to speak to my dad entirely in English. I’m so thankful to him for sending me lists of English words useful for daily life and communicating with fans. These words are immensely helpful. I’m eager to learn different languages and am determined to do so. When I shared this with my dad, he offered to teach me all the languages he knows. So I gratefully responded, ‘Thank you, Dad.'”

A touching moment

Lastly, in a touching moment, Hueningkai empathized with a fan who lost a class election by a single vote, offering, “I understand how you feel. It’s essential not to be too hard on yourself, as this will become a memory in time. The most crucial aspect is to enjoy your school life. Remember, there will be more opportunities for you to run for class president in the future.”

This live broadcast was a testament to the TXT maknae’s genuine connection with fans, showcasing his sweet, multifaceted personality and deep reflections. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Hyuka’s sweet face matches his sweet personality. Source: Twitter/@hnkapics.

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