HyunA explained why she needed to clear her IG feed
HyunA just got real about her past relationships and the choice to preserve her public image. The former WONDER GIRLS singer recently opened up about her failed relationship with DAWN. In addition to that, Kim Hyun-ah shared the real reason why she deleted her ex’s photos from her personal Instagram account.
HyunA Opens Up About Deleting DAWN’s Photos From Instagram
Things truly got hot when HyunA made an appearance in Jeon Somi’s new variety show “Yes or Hot”. In Somi’s unique variety program concept, artists are presented with a compelling choice: they can either respond to a series of probing questions or opt for a fiery alternative by indulging in spicy cuisine. As the interview unfolded, the inquiries grew progressively more daring, embracing the metaphorical heat of the spicy challenge.
The crescendo of intensity culminated in a particularly riveting moment when Somi delved into the subject of HyunA’s previous romantic relationships. Specifically, Somi questioned HyunA about her resolute stance on not removing photographs of her former partners from her social media accounts.
Somi was curious to know whether HyunA had indeed kept all her photographs after her separation from DAWN in 2022. Sharp-eyed fans had noticed that certain pictures featuring the former couple had vanished from HyunA’s Instagram account.
HyunA, in response to Somi’s inquiry, confirmed this observation while offering a thoughtful clarification. She explained that the removal of certain posts was solely motivated by her desire to curate a visually appealing and aesthetically pleasing Instagram feed. When Somi joked to the camera that DAWN should keep his Instagram as it is, his ex quickly pointed out that he should do what he wants.
It’s a thoughtful message from the soloist and it’s clear that HyunA and DAWN have remained friendly despite their breakup. Needless to say, it’s a true testament to their claims that their relationship is based on a strong friendship.
GF Entertainment shares photo of their new artist, Bang Ye-dam. Credit: Press release/GF Entertainment
Former TREASURE member Bang Ye-dam will be starting afresh as a solo artist with his new agency GF Entertainment.
In his personal Instagram account on Wednesday, August 23, Ye-dam shared a heartfelt message showing gratitude to his former labelYG Entertainment, previous group TREASURE, and their fans,Treasure Makers or TEUMEs.
The 21-year-old artist looked back at how his idol journey started, saying that YG Entertainment has supported and has allowed him to grow to who he is now.
[230824] bangyedam_0257 instagram post
"Hello, I'm Bang Yedam. I will now be joining a new entertainment, GF Entertainment.
I would like to thank all the TREASURE MAKERS for supporting me since I started activities with TREASURE and to YG Entertainment who, for a long time,… pic.twitter.com/5O8lTT7IpT
For their part, GF Entertainment is also looking forward to having Ye-dam under their agency.
“We are glad to sign with a talented artist. We plan on relentlessly supporting Bang Ye-dam, so he can be a musician who can excel as a producer, singer, and in other aspects.” GF Entertainment said in a press release.
ㅡ "We recently signed an exclusive contract with Bang Yedam. We are pleased to sign a contract with a very talented artist. We will give our full support to Bang Yedam so that he can become a musician in various fields, including being a producer and singer"
Aside from Ye-Dam, the agency also currently manages the 7-member boy group Kingdom.
Fans’ reaction to the news
Fans, especially TEUMEs who have waited for a long time, have expressed their support and excitement towards Ye-dam’s new path as an artist.
“I wanna hug everyone who waited for this day to come. Finally guys, war is over. Ye-dam is finally with his new agency and will be releasing his new music soon,” one fan wrote.
I wanna hug everyone who waited for this day to come. Finally guys, war is over. Yedam is finally with his new agency and will be releasing his new music soon.
to the one whom i cherished since day one, i'm not sure what happened behind the scenes but welcome back. a fresh start for you and i'm glad about it. to #BANGYEDAM new agency, please treat yedam right. yedamie, love you 🖤 pic.twitter.com/tf34oYMt7p
I’ll support you, yedam ah. I’ll always love the 11 years old yedam, yedam of treasure and producer bang yedam. No matter who you are, i’ll cherish you the same as before🫶🏻🥹 https://t.co/mKIpQFxhA1
nothing to say but a big respect to this boy cause he mention every single things like “TREASURE” “TREASURE MAKER” and “YG ENTERTAINMENT”. i’m crying again #BANGYEDAM 🥺😭 pic.twitter.com/WbLyRjZ1xn
— teh o ais di bulan ramadhan (@mypurpletoyou) August 23, 2023
Overall, the majority of them are anticipating Ye-dam‘s solo career.
From TREASURE member to solo artist
Bang Ye-dam made his debut in August 2020 as a member of the 12-piece South Korean-Japanese group TREASURE.
However, in May 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Ye-dam and Mashisho will be taking a hiatus from group activities. According to the agency, Ye-dam will be working on his career as a producer and studying music for the time being.
Come November 2022, YG Entertainment announced that Ye-dam and Mashiho are parting ways with the agency, leaving TREASURE as a 10-member group.The only remaining members are Choi Hyunsuk, Jihoon, Park Jeongwoo, Yoshi, Junkyu, So Junghwan, Yoon Jaehyuk, Asahi, Doyoung, and Haruto.
Additionally, Ye-dam spent nine years in YGEntertainment, with seven years as a trainee and two years in TREASURE.
Since his departure from YG Entertainment, Ye-dam has updated fans through his Instagram account. He opened it on his birthday this year, in which he initially hinted at making a comeback.
“If you just wait a little longer, I’ll be back with good news. I’ll be back again as a cool Bang Ye-dam! Thank you always,” he said then.
Featured image: GF Entertainment shares photo of their new artist, Bang Ye-dam. Credit: Press release/GF Entertainment
The atmosphere on the second day of KCON LA was electric. Amidst the roaring crowd, a particular moment stood out. It wasn’t just about ZEROBASEONE (ZB1) performing in the U.S. for the first time. Instead, the spotlight momentarily shifted to a fan who, at the end of a collaborative stage with ZB1, struck a pose that has become iconic. With a hand on the waist, a tilt of the head, and a confident smirk, they paid homage to a dance that earned ZEROBASEONE‘s leader, Sung Hanbin, the nickname “mother.”
ZeroBaseOne, K-Pop’s Fifth Generation It Boys, Know How Much You Love the "Mother" Pose https://t.co/2QCJ2Onkel
This pose goes back to when the members of ZEROBASEONE were contestants on Mnet’s survival show Boys Planet. A pre-debut video of Hanbin dancing to RuPaul’s “Call Me Mother” in 2020 went viral. His waacking dance style led fans worldwide to recreate the now-famous “mother” pose.
The day after their KCON performance, the members of ZEROBASEONE couldn’t help but chuckle when Cosmopolitan U.S. asked about the fan’s pose during an exclusive interview. Hanbin expressed pride in his past performances, saying, “I think it proves I did my best, and I was working hard to get to where I am.”
ZEROBASEONE, fifth-gen leaders
In a short span since their debut on July 10, ZEROBASEONE ascended to the pinnacle of K-pop. Their debut album Youth in the Shade made history by selling over a million copies in a single day. Their rapid rise to fame has positioned them as leaders of the fifth generation of K-pop artists.
ZEROBASEONE FAN CON FULL HD at GOCHEOK SKYDOME
The group’s journey has been marked by a lot of milestones. From their first fanmeeting in Seoul’s Gocheok Sky Dome stadium to their debut U.S. performance at KCON LA, they’ve made significant strides. When asked about their achievements, Ricky told Cosmopolitan U.S. that the week of their KCON performance turned out to be one of the group’s biggest and busiest weeks. “For this week we prepared for a long time. And the schedule is busy but there are many ZEROSE waiting for the events, so that’s why we can go through this visit with their love and support.”
Seok Matthew said their event at the Gocheok Sky Dome was one for the books. “Going to Gocheok Sky Dome or going here and performing, we never really thought we’d ever do this. But being able to, it’s an unforgettable moment. After finishing the stage we’d be like, I can’t believe we just did that. Thinking about it now, I think I can remember every detail of the Gocheok Dome experience. Because of ZEROSE, everything is everlasting.”
A new precious memory
On their U.S. visit, Zhang Hao expressed excitement and curiosity about connecting with L.A. fans and experiencing the city’s iconic landmarks, like the Hollywood sign. “It’s our first time except for Ricky to be in LA, so we were excited. But one thing I was curious about is that with LA ZEROSE, we were wondering whether the experience on the stage would be different. How would they react? Because we have different cultures and the way they show love would be different, we were curious about that. We were excited to build new memories and happiness with our fans. And one thing that got me really excited is that from our hotel window, you can see the Hollywood sign. That’s a really special experience because we’ve only seen that in movies. And it’s an experience that we could only have because we are now ZB1.”
ZEROBASEONE (제로베이스원) ‘s 1min. ⏱💚 | KCON LA 2023
The group also touched upon their Dream Stage performance, where they danced with fans who had auditioned. “We performed ‘Here I Am’ on the Dream Stage and it brought back memories that we went through on Boys Planet. Seeing our fans dancing to that song with us, that was very special,” Han Yujin said.
“We were very proud to see such good dancers. When we were dancing together we would make eye contact. Every time we saw them, they were smiling. I feel like we built a new precious memory with them being on the stage,” Kim Taerae added.
What’s next for ZEROBASEONE
Addressing their hectic schedule, Kim Gyuvin highlighted the importance of maintaining mental and physical health. “This is the first time that we went this far to another country. It was hard to get into this country’s time. My biorhythm was a little messy, with all the jet lag. I’m trying my best to overcome it by drinking water and trying to get as much sleep as possible and taking vitamins. So not only my mental health, I’m trying to really keep up my physical health as well at the same time.”
Full interview with ZEROBASEONE
As the interview ended, Hanbin shared the group’s goal of promoting in good health and cherishing every moment with the fans. “There’s a second album coming up, we are working hard for that. And for individual goals, we have different ones, but I think the common goal for the members would be to promote in healthy conditions. We’ve had a lot of great opportunities performing and interacting with fans. Every one of them is precious. I think it’s important to capture those moments and keep them inside of us.”
In other news, ZEROBASEONE recently dropped a teaser film for their new album, which is set to drop later this year. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Before their sit-down with Cosmopolitan US, ZEROBASEONE did a photoshoot for DAZED Korea. Source: Twitter/@DazedKorea.
The K-pop world is buzzing with excitement as DKZ‘s Park Jaechan, best known for his star turn in the hit BL web dramaSemantic Error, is officially stepping into the spotlight as a solo artist.
Please let it be true that Park Jaechan is going to have his solo debut soon! 😍🙏 pic.twitter.com/g6H2uz91VQ
On August 23, DKZ’s agency Dongyo Entertainment made the much-anticipated announcement. They said, “DKZ member Jaechan is preparing with the aim of making his solo debut this September. He plans on showcasing new charms as a solo artist, so please show lots of support and anticipation.”
Jaechan‘s journey in the entertainment industry has been nothing short of remarkable. Making his debut as a member of DKZ in 2019, he quickly became a fan favorite. The group has treated fans to unforgettable performances through their releases. DKZ’s hits include “CRAZY NIGHT,” “Cupid,” and “Uh-Heung.” But Jaechan didn’t just make his mark in music. His role in Semantic Error earned significant attention and praise, solidifying his position as a versatile artist.
Moreover, his dedication and talent haven’t gone unnoticed. He recently bagged the OST Popularity Award and TIRTIR Popularity Award at the prestigious 2nd Blue Dragon Series Awards. That win is a testament to his growing influence in the entertainment world.
“Step into my heart and you’ve become my world, oh, you’re romantic devil!”
Going from being in a group to being on your own is no mean feat. It requires an artist to redefine their image, sound, and overall brand. But with Jaechan‘s proven track record and the unwavering support of his fans, the anticipation for his solo debut is high. His new beginning promises to unveil a side of Jaechan fans haven’t seen before. As the date draws closer, they are eagerly waiting to see what the talented artist has in store.
For those who can’t wait, there’s always the option to revisit Jaechan‘s performance in Semantic Error alongside his onscreen partner Park Seoham. It serves as a reminder of his incredible range as an artist and the potential he holds for his solo journey.
As he prepares to fly solo, the world watches with bated breath, ready to embrace the new music and whatever else he’ll bring to the table. Stay tuned for more updates! – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: He has the star power to succeed as a soloist. Source: Twitter/@clingyteddy.
BTS‘ V, also known as Kim Taehyung, has always been a force to reckon with in the music industry. His recent collaboration with W Korea magazine solidified his position as a global icon. It marks the superstar’s debut as Cartier’s global brand ambassador, representing the ‘Panthère de Cartier’ line. The photoshoot is a visual treat, with V blending elegance and sensuality.
But it’s not just the photos that captured netizens’ attention. V’s interview with W Korea provided a candid look into his life. He talked openly about the pressures and thrill of being in the limelight. One of the most intriguing parts of the interview revolved around his debut album, Layover.
“The entire process was reminiscent of revisiting my early vocal training days,” he said. “I stumbled upon my new vocal identity. Certain tonalities and pronunciations seem to resonate more now. My love for diverse genres often has me humming away. While creating this solo album, I discovered my vocal essence, and that’s what makes me incredibly fulfilled.”
His dedication to his craft was evident in the interview, even when he talked about working with Min Heejin of ADOR, the CEO behind NewJeans.
“I trust my instincts, but I remain open to the insights of those around me. Both are important to me. I wanted to show a different side of my music compared to my past releases, and collaborating seemed like the best way to achieve that,” he says. “f(x)’s Pink Tape was a big inspiration. I reached out to her when I recalled it. Our discussions were productive, encompassing all the details, and the whole process was seamless. Min Hee Jin brought expertise and sincerity to the table. She has such a warm presence.”
It’s all about ARMY
V also reflected on his personality. He said resilience is one of his core traits. But he acknowledged his vulnerabilities as well, including his tendency to move at his own pace. He realized that may have frustrated some ARMY, which made him feel terrible. That left V with a strong desire to make it up to them however he can.
W Korea VOL. 9 2023 – Eye Contact with V
"Collected the moments of making eye contact with BTS V on the set."
“While I may not always operate at a rapid pace, there’s a steadfast and unyielding resilience within me, akin to that of a tanker. I tend to move at my own rhythm, which might test ARMY’s patience at times. For instance, with my solo album, the wait was extensive. My initial intention was a release in December of the previous year; but the process was extended, leaving me with an enduring sense of apology,” he said. “It feels like forever since I connected with ARMY on stage. The burning question in my mind is ‘Do I need to diet for this grand return?’ Trust me, that thought was non-stop. It’s all about ARMY. Being in their presence, feeling their energy—that’s paramount.”
W Korea is a feather in V’s cap
But amidst the challenges that come with life in the spotlight, V’s personality remains unchanged at its core. The pursuit of joy is very important to him, whether it involves small things like a nice meal or big things like spending time with the BTS members. Now that they’re currently working on their own projects, V makes it a point to keep up with the others’ achievements. Seeing them excel makes him feel good.
“Every time they hit the stage, I’m proud of how far they’ve come. They bring something fresh and it’s just amazing to see. Honestly, I’ve been all in, soaking up every scene they’ve been in and on,” he shared.
KIM TAEHYUNG – HD Fullscreen Wallpaper / Lockscreen
✔️Please retweet if you like the picture! ❌️crop the watermark
— Min Swag 🖤 wallpapers + edits (@MinSwag07) August 22, 2023
His LP Layover will be out on September 8. With songs like “Slow Dancing,” “Love Me Again,” and “Rainy Days” generating buzz, it’ll be another feather in his cap—just like this W Korea spread.
Featured Image: V exuded the aura of a panther in his W Korea photoshoot. Source: W Korea.
Rain updates fans with new photo of him. Credit: Twitter/Rain Company
Rain is a K-pop star that needs no introduction. But while he’s undeniably a talented artist, fans have started wondering if he’s a capable handler, too.
Concerns about him as a talent producer have escalated recently. To the point that his performance at the KCON LA 2023 reportedly received a black ocean from the attendees.
But why is there a hate for Rain to begin with? And was he really met with a black ocean during KCON LA 2023?
For starters, Rain is an established singer-songwriter, dancer, and actor. With seven studio albums, three extended plays, and more than thirty singles under his belt, there’s no denying how rich his musical career is.
Additionally, he’s also a seasoned actor, having starred both in local Korean projects and international ones.
In fact, he was even included in Time’s 100 most influential people in the world for the years 2006 and 2011. It’s a real testament on how much of a global superstar Rain is.
Unfortunately, his knack as an artist seemingly didn’t translate well to him being a good record producer.
In November 2007, Rain started his own entertainment company J.Tune Entertainment, or formerly known as Rainy Entertainment. Said agency had a subsidiary called J.Tune Camp, which debuted the boy group MBLAQin October 2009. However, JYP Entertainment merged with J.Tune Entertainment in December 2010 and became the latter’s shareholder.
In September 2015, Rain announced that he’ll be creating his own one-man emergency.
In December 2020, he revealed that he’s planning to debut a new boy group next.
Come March 2021, the seven-piece act Ciipher made their debut. The members were reportedly handpicked by Rain himself, as some of them have previously appeared on survival shows such as Produce X 101, Under Nineteen, and YG Treasure Box.
The backlash against Rain
However, Rain’s competence in handling the group has been put into spotlight when four members of Ciipherannounced their departure from the group.
In early August, Dohwan, Tag, Tan, and Won left the group following the expiration of their contracts.
As for the remaining members, Hwi, Hyunbin, and Keita, they will reportedly regroup as a trio in the future. Although final plans about them have yet to be announced.
Unsurprisingly, the news wasn’t received well by the fans. Many were speculating that Ciipher was mistreated and mismanaged when they were active as a group.
🗝️ Timeline of events that happened & is happening to #Ciipher#싸이퍼 and how @raincompany_ NEGLECTED them (with proofs)
Additionally, several fans related Ciipher’s situation to the previous idol groups that Rain managed such as MBLAQand Madtown. Despite the popularity and potential of the two latter groups, they weren’t given enough promotion to the public, as compared to their idol contemporaries.
With this, fans were intent to express their displeasure against Rain and planned to boycott his performance at the KCON LA 2023.
Some even pointed out that instead of him performing in the show, Ciipher should’ve beenin Rain’s position instead.
WTF? HE HAS THE AUDACITY TO JOIN THE KCON BUT CANT EVEN PROMOTE THE ONLY GROUP HE HANDLES? CIIPHER SHOULD HAVE BEEN ON YOUR POSITION https://t.co/Jvy1COKoy4
He should be making sure Ciipher attended these events instead, especially with Keita's popularity in Boys Planet, but that is a personal opinion… https://t.co/SkMCvmgt0h
“I don’t care what your opinion is on a black ocean nor Rain’s legacy in K-pop. This man ruined and crushed the dreams [of] seven talented boys. He literally openly said he regretted funding their dreams! He deserves no cheers and no lightstick ocean regardless of his status in K-pop,” one fan wrote.
i dont care what your opinion is on a black ocean nor rain’s legacy in kpop. this man ruined and crushed the dreams 7 talented boys. he literally openly said he regretted funding their dreams! he deserves no cheers and no lightstick ocean regardless of his status in kpop. https://t.co/XPuLlQVVhR
Clips of Rain reportedly being booed and flipped by attendees also circulated on social media. An attendee was also seen holding a “We wanted Ciipher” sign during Rain’s performance.
However, several attendees also claimed that it wasn’t to the point that it can be called a black ocean. Although many did agree that compared to the stages of other artists, Rain’s KCON LA performance wasn’t as loud.
“It felt more like most people simply didn’t know Rain, rather than mass action,” one wrote.
A bunch of people have asked me if there was truly a black ocean at KCON. I kinda knew this would come up so I took panos just as Rain’s set was beginning and during the next set. Tbh it felt more like most people simply didn’t know Rain, rather than mass action pic.twitter.com/4Vcu2SB33d
— Tamar Herman is not here anymore (@TamarWrites) August 21, 2023
As of writing, Rain has yet to acknowledge the supposed protest.
Jihyo discussed her trainee days and how she almost didn't debut in TWICE because she ran away from her company!
Being an idol is a dream come true for most people but for Jihyo, it was an ambition that was almost too much. The TWICE leader has just revealed that she considered quitting when she was just a trainee. It was so bad that Park Ji Hyo actually ran away from her company!
Jihyo Opens Up About the Difficulties of Being a JYPE Trainee
During the August 21st episode of “Neighborhood Friend Kangnam,” Jihyo teamed up with the show’s host Kangnam to create a delectable crepe cake. Amid the culinary adventure, the TWICE member shared a captivating story from her trainee days, adding a personal touch to the episode.
“I actually used to be a pig,” she revealed. “I don’t worry about things like this. As long as it tastes good.”
The carefree attitude was something that Park Ji Hyo had for years before she became a trainee. “I was a trainee for 11 years,” she shared. The TWICE leader then admitted that there was a time that she tried to escape her own company.
“I ran away once because it was so hard. I ran away from home,” she shared. “When I was in my third year of high school, I ran away to my aunt’s house, but I got caught.”
Jihyo reflected on her actions and the difficult time she faced as an aspiring idol. “It was so hard right before our debut,” she said. “If I think about it now, I seriously could’ve messed things up.”
Luckily, things changed for the girl who was born Park Ji-soo. After she debuted with TWICE, things have been looking up for the former model.
In a June 2023 announcement, it was revealed that Jihyo was set to launch her debut EP, titled “Zone,” on August 18, 2023. The EP’s leading single, “Killin’ Me Good,” was disclosed as part of the announcement, marking Jihyo as the second member of TWICE to embark on a solo debut journey. Notably, before this official revelation, Jihyo had already treated fans to a sneak peek of her upcoming work by performing an unreleased track titled “Nightmare” during Twice’s “Ready to Be World Tour.”
Lisa poses for BLACKPINK's Summer Diary in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BLACKPINK
“Dollar bills, dollar bills. Watch it falling for me, I love the way that feels.” This is the lyrics from the solo song “Money”of BLACKPINK’s Lisa and we can just tell you how true it is!
Social media marketing management platform Hopper HQrecently released its “Instagram Rich List” for 2023 and unsurprisingly, BLACKPINK’s Lisa is included in the rankings.
Lisa is the only K-Pop artist included in Hopper HQ's “2023 Instagram Rich List”, with $575K as her cost per post.
The Thai-born rapper ranked 26th in the list. Also, she’s the only K-pop artist to be included in the Top 100.
According to HopperHQ, Lisa had a total of 95,815,834 followers on Instagram when the list was released. Additionally, she’s reportedly earning $575,000 for one sponsored post on Instagram.
• The 2023 Instagram Rich Lists by Hopper HQ ➖ Top #Instagram Earners for this year:
#26 #LISA MANOBAL (lalalalisa_m) ➖ $575,000 per ad/sponsored post
Meanwhile, South Korean actor Lee Minho and actress Song Hye Kyo are also included in the Top 100.
With a following of 33 million, Lee Minho secured the 55th spot and is earning $200,000 per post. As for Song Hye Kyo, her 16 million follower count earned her the 93rd spot. She’s reportedly accumulating $100,000 per sponsored post on Instagram.
Actor Lee Minho is the only male Korean artist included in Hopper HQ's “2023 Instagram Rich List”, with $200K as his cost per post.
Moreover, Portuguese football star Cristiano Ronaldo topped the rankings with a whopping $ 3.2 million a post. With his 601 million followers, the athlete is the most followed person on Instagram.
As for international celebrities, Selena Gomez, Kylie Jenner, Ariana Grande, Kim Kardashian, Beyoncé, Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Dua Lipa, and Emma Watson are also included in the list.
Lisa’s star power
Frankly, Lisa’s inclusion in the list is no longer surprising given her worldwide popularity.
— World Music Awards (@WORLDMUSICAWARD) May 8, 2023
Aside from her solo titles, BLACKPINK also holds several Guinness World Records, including being the most viewed channel on YouTube which further heightens Lisa’s star power.
In fact, Lisa has also been recently announced as one of the inductees for Asian Hall of Fame 2023. She’s nominated alongside Far*East Movement and Freddie Mercury, among others.
However, in between this good news, several rumors about Lisa are also circulating. First, she’s speculated to no longer renew with YG Entertainment given that BLACKPINK’s seven-year contract with the agency is set to expire by August 2023.
Second, she’s also embroiled in dating rumors with TAG Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault.As of writing, both camps have yet to address the relationship rumors.
As the oldest in the group, Lee Dong Heon will be the first member of VERIVERY to enlist for military service
Dongheon of VERIVERY has formally disclosed his impending military enlistment date.
Jellyfish Entertainment, on August 23, conveyed an official statement via VERIVERY’s official fan cafe, confirming that Dongheon will embark on his military service in the upcoming week.
“Dongheon plans to fulfill his military duty as an active duty soldier after receiving basic military training at the training center on August 28,” the agency wrote. “In respect of the artist’s wishes to enlist quietly, the enlistment location and time will be kept private, and there will be no other formal procedure. We ask for your generous support and encouragement for Dongheon, who will return in good health after fulfilling his military duties.”
VERRER React to Dongheon’s Enlistment Plans
Not surprisingly, fans were sad to know that Dongheon will be enlisting soon. However, most were understandably prepared for the news. After all, Jellyfish Entertainment had already confirmed that the VERIVERY leader is planning to enlist this year. Nevertheless, everyone is already hoping he will stay happy and healthy.
Dongheon will be the first member of VERIVERY to enlist for mandatory military service. He is the eldest member of the group and is already expected to enlist this year. Other members Hoyoung, Minchan, Gyehyeon, Yeonho, Yongseung and Kangmin are not yet due for enlistment.
Lee Dong Heon assumes the pivotal role of leader and main rapper of the group. His journey to debut with the group was marked by five years of dedicated training, culminating in their January 2019 debut. VERIVERY made their debut with the EP ‘Veri-Us,’ featuring the standout single “Ring Ring Ring.” Soon, the group took creative reins into their own hands, producing their music video for the track. Today, VERIVERY stands as a self-producing entity.
In 2020, the group participated in Mnet‘s reality competition, “Road to Kingdom,” where they left an indelible mark. Morever, their song “Beautiful-X” was unveiled for the show’s grand finale. It then secured them a commendable fifth-place finish in the overall rankings.
RIIZE in a teaser for 'Get A Guitar.' Credit: Twitter/RIIZE
From web novel to photo exhibition: the highly-anticipated debut of SM Entertainment’s newest boy group RIIZE is looking like a huge celebration of its own!
SM Entertainment announced on Tuesday, August 22 that RIIZE will be holding a photo exhibition to celebrate the group’s upcoming debut album.
The exhibition is set for August 26 to September 10 at D Museum in Seongsu-dong, Seoul.
.@RIIZE_official is having a photo exhibition "RIIZE and Realize" to celebrate the release of their first single album "Get a Guitar." The exhibition will take place from August 26-September 10 at D Museum in Seongsu-dong, Seoul. Reservation starts 22nd! #RIIZE#RISEandREALIZEpic.twitter.com/vv5tnSWlyS
[230822] RIIZE News 📰#RIIZE photo exhibition was orgazined under the theme of memories the members built together in the process of preparing their debut. Include the photo-zone with undisclosed photos capturing album jacket and MV scenes. pic.twitter.com/1kMGWW259U
Additionally, the theme of the event will revolve around the memories made by the members while they were preparing for their debut.
Fans will also see never-before-seen photos from the group’s album jacket shoot and music video filming.
RIIZE 'Get A Guitar' PO Benefit : Random 1 of 7 unreleased selfi photocard for Photo Exhibition Album purchase. You can select the photocard type and apply.
Interestingly, those who will visit the photo exhibition will also get one random selfie photocard of a RIIZE member. Fun, right?
RIIZE 'Get A Guitar' PO Benefit : Random 1 of 7 unreleased selfi photocard for Photo Exhibition Album purchase. You can select the photocard type and apply.
Moreover, this isn’t the only special event prepared by SM Entertainment for RIIZE’s upcoming debut. The agency also partnered with Kakao Entertainment for a web novel called Rise and Realize.
Said web novel will see the members of RIIZE try to overcome growing pains. It will have a total of eight episodes, with one episode being released on Kakao Page every Saturday starting August 19.
Countdown to RIIZE
Even before the group’s official debut on September 4, RIIZE is already gaining worldwide popularity.
Just days after all seven members were introduced on Instagram, RIIZE’s account became fastest K-pop group to reach 1 million followers on the said platform.
The interest might come from members Shotaro and Sungchan, who were former NCT members. Meanwhile, Eunseok and Seung Han were first introduced as SMROOKIES. Still, even the newly introduced members Won Bin,So Hee, and Anton have also garnered huge followings.
Besides, the group also makes sure to spotlight the members’ talents in their pre-releases. They were already praised by fans in the “Siren” performance video and pre-debut song “Memories.”
What’s even more amazing is that RIIZE also already took the KCON LA 2023 stage! Yes, right even they made their official debut!
Like how SM Entertainment plans for thegroup to “write a new chapter of music history,” RIIZE seems to be already off to a good start! Which is nice given that RIIZE will serve as the agency’s first boy group in seven years following NCT.
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