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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

AKMU recently dropped their latest single “Love LEE.”

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

KARA’s Youngji Officially Announces Solo Debut in September

Heo YoungJi also shared the first teaser for her solo debut 'Toi Toi Toi'

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

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

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

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

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

Heo Young Ji’s ‘Toi Toi Toi’ teaser

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

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

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

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Kim Woo Bin Pays Tribute to Departed Fan

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

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

Ji Won’s family reacts

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

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

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

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

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

 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

CARATs Defend SEVENTEEN’s Joshua After His Latest Weverse Post

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

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

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

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

Overwhelming love for Joshua

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

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

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

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

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

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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