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SEVENTEEN Releases the Japanese Track “Sara Sara”

Sara Sara

SEVENTEEN, the successful K-pop group consisting of members S.Coups, Jeonghan, Joshua, Jun, Hoshi, Wonwoo, Woozi, The8, Mingyu, DK, Seungkwan, Vernon, and Dino, has unveiled their latest Japanese track, “Sara Sara.” This song comes ahead of their much-anticipated first Japanese best album, ALWAYS YOURS, set to launch on the 23rd.

The song’s title in Japanese refers to “the smooth and uninterrupted flow or progression of things.” Through the lyrics of this pop track, SEVENTEEN conveys a heartfelt message to their dedicated fanbase, the CARATs. 

The song encapsulates the following sentiment: “We have flowed to this point, we continue to flow, and we will keep flowing together in the future.” It’s a testament to the strong bond they’ve built over the years, expressing gratitude and love for the unwavering support they’ve received.

The album ALWAYS YOURS is a treasure trove for fans. Apart from this first one, it features one other new song, “Ima -Even if the world ends tomorrow-.” It’ll have a total of 27 songs, such as the Japanese versions of “HIGHLIGHT,” “Lean On Me,” “20,” and more. Its official release is set for August 23.

“Sara Sara” sets the tone

In other exciting news for CARATs, SEVENTEEN is gearing up for their most extensive Japanese activity since they debuted several years back—a large-scale dome tour. The ‘SEVENTEEN TOUR ‘FOLLOW’ TO JAPAN’ will take the group to five major Japanese cities. 

Starting with the Tokyo Dome on September 6-7, the tour will move to venues like the Beruna Dome in Saitama on November 23-24, the Banteerin Dome in Nagoya from November 30 to December 3, the Kyocera Dome in Osaka on December 7-10, and finally, the Fukuoka PayPay Dome on December 16-17.

This tour, combined with the album release, marks a significant milestone in SEVENTEEN‘s journey. With their pre-release track setting the tone, fans worldwide eagerly await the fun, heartwarming experience that ALWAYS YOURS promises to deliver. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: “Sara Sara” is one of two new songs on the album. Source: Twitter/@pledis_17.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

JYP Entertainment Faces Disappointing Earnings, Stock Slump

JYP Entertainment, the renowned music label responsible for K-pop sensations such as NiziU, Stray Kids, and TWICE, experienced a notable decline in its stock value recently. This is attributed to the company’s inability to meet its projected quarterly profit figures.

On August 14, its shares plummeted by 8.3%, closing at 119,000 KRW ($89.4). Earlier that day, the stock value had even hit a low of 113,300 KRW. While the entertainment agency’s second-quarter operating profit witnessed a commendable 88% year-on-year increase, reaching 45.6 billion KRW, it still fell short of its anticipated 51 billion won earnings.

Stray Kids “PARTY’S NOT OVER” | [Stray Kids : SKZ-PLAYER]｜2023 STAYweeK

Many factors contributed to this unexpected outcome. Hanwha Investment & Securities Co. analyst, Park Soo-young, wrote in a report dated August 14 that the company’s content production expenses and employee bonuses had more than doubled compared to last year. These increased expenditures impacted the company’s overall profit. Ergo, despite the stock’s impressive 84% growth since the beginning of the year, Park suggests that it might temporarily underperform.

Park also offered some insights into the future of the Korean entertainment industry. He predicts a potential slow down next year, given the recent surge in album sales and the resumption of live events. Emphasizing the importance of diversifying revenue streams, Park stated, “It’s now crucial to enhance the success rate of various channels, like digital content and merchandise, especially in the North American and European markets.”

JYP Entertainment and its rivals

Interestingly, about 30% of JYP’s quarterly revenue comes from the Americas. This is largely due to the company’s strategic partnership with the American label Republic Records, a division of the Universal Music Group. This collaboration has significantly amplified the intellectual property rights of K-pop groups like Stray Kids and TWICE in the region. Park anticipates that JYP will continue to broaden its footprint in Western markets, ensuring more consistent profit margins than its rivals.

In comparison, other major players in the K-pop industry also witnessed fluctuations in their stock values. YG Entertainment, the company behind BLACKPINK and BIGBANG, saw a minor decrease of 0.24%, closing at 81,500 KRW on the same day. Their second-quarter operating profit stood at 28.9 billion KRW, a staggering increase of approximately 3.1 times from the previous year. Their revenue also doubled, reaching 158.2 billion won.

BLACKPINK – 7th ANNIVERSARY

Meanwhile, SM Entertainment, the pioneering agency representing aespa and NCT, among other big K-pop acts, observed a slight uptick of 0.15% in its shares, ending at 136,700 KRW. Despite facing management disputes earlier this year, the company reported robust second-quarter figures. Their operating profit surged by 84% year-on-year, amounting to 35.7 billion won, while their revenue increased by 30%, totaling 239.8 billion won.

While JYP Entertainment’s recent stock decline is a cause for concern, it should be viewed within the broader context of the dynamic and ever-evolving K-pop industry. With strategic partnerships and a focus on diversifying revenue streams, JYP is still in a good position to navigate the challenges ahead. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Is this news good or bad for JYP? Source: Twitter/@useryeowo.

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BigHit Music Opens Pre-Orders for TXT’s Summer Photobook

In their latest release, TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) invites fans on a vibrant trip to Osaka, Japan through Season of TXT: YOUTH.

[PREVIEW] TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Season of TXT: YOUTH’ Mood Sampler

A candid glimpse

Their 200-page photobook Season of TXT: YOUTH captures the essence of summer and youth, as well as the band members’ carefree spirit. The photobook is more than a collection of pictures; it’s a celebration of the season and the colorful moments of their youth.

The photobook comes bundled with an 80-minute video that showcases the TXT members doing fun missions, going on leisurely walks, and taking time to stop and smell the roses in the picturesque city of Osaka. The behind-the-scenes footage offers a candid glimpse into their time there. It makes fans feel as if they’re right next to the band.

Adding a personal touch to the package, the photobook includes handwritten postcards addressed to MOA (Moments of Alwaysness), the group’s dedicated fanbase. These postcards, along with a set of photocards, enhance the overall experience, making it a must-have for any TXT enthusiast.

In line with BigHit Music‘s commitment to sustainability, the product is eco-friendly. It’s crafted from paper certified by Korea’s Forest Stewardship Council and printed using biodegradable soy ink. This ensures that while fans cherish their favorite moments, they’re also contributing to a greener planet.

[PREVIEW] TXT (투모로우바이투게더) ‘Season of TXT: YOUTH’ SPOT

What’s in “Season of TXT: YOUTH”?

For those who want to get their hands on this summer treat, pre-orders commence from 11:00 AM KST on August 17 and will continue while supplies last. Season of TXT: YOUTH’s official release date is October 11.

The package’s unique design ensures the safety of its contents. Season of TXT: YOUTH includes the main photobook, a ticket, a postcard set with a holder, a set of photocards, a youth keyring with a silver chain, and a digital code card. This digital code card is a gateway to high-definition VODs on Weverse. Fans can easily verify the code to watch the video, be it on mobile, PC, or the Weverse TV app.

However, MOAs should keep in mind that they need a Weverse account to view the content. Every digital code is unique and can be registered to only one account. It’s also crucial to remember that deleting a Weverse Shop or Weverse account means losing access to purchase history.

Season of TXT: YOUTH isn’t just a photobook; it’s an immersive experience filled with adventure, laughter, and memories. Whether you’re a die-hard MOA or just someone who appreciates beautiful photos, this photobook is a summer essential. Get yours while supplies last! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is just one of the moments preserved in the 80-minute video that comes with the photobook. Source: YouTube/@TXT_bighit.

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Look: Secret Number Confirms August Comeback

SECRET NUMBER shares a behind photo from filming 'Doxa.' Credit: Twitter/SECRET NUMBER

Multicultural girl group SECRET NUMBER will be releasing their seventh single album Star Light on August 24. 

The act first shared a teaser with the phrase “coming soon” on Tuesday, August 15. In the photo, the members were seen putting their hands together. 

 

On Wednesday, August 16, they unveiled the track list for their upcoming release. 

Star Light will have two songs. The title track has the same name as the album, while the b-side is called “Crazy Love.”  Interestingly, members Minji and Jinny are credited for the lyrics of Crazy Love. 

 

Additionally, the group will be making a comeback just three months after they released their sixth EP Doxa in May. 

More about SECRET NUMBER 

The six-member act made their debut in May 2020 with the single “Who Dis?”

Moreover, SECRET NUMBER is known for being a multinational group. Lea is from Japan, Dita is from Indonesia, while Jinny is Korean-American. Meanwhile, members Minji, Soodam, and Zuu are all from Korea. 

In an interview with HelloKpop, the group talked about being diverse as a team. 

“I really enjoy learning and exchanging knowledge of our languages and cultures,” Jinny said. “Also, whenever we visit countries that we’re from, the members that are from that country feel so reliable. They’re like our tour guides.” 

Featured image: SECRET NUMBER shares a behind photo from filming ‘Doxa.’ Credit: Twitter/SECRET NUMBER

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Boy Group Evnne to Debut in September

Jellyfish Entertainment's newest boy group EVNNE confirms debut date. Credit: Twitter/EVNNE

EVNNE, the boy group of Jellyfish Entertainment consisting of Boys Planet contestants, is making their official debut on September 18. 

On Wednesday, August 16, the agency marked the countdown for the group’s debut by unveiling its logo. 

The logo of EVNNE featured the letters E and V fused together. Additionally, the name’s meaning, “Evening’s Newest Etoiles,” is also written in the poster. 

“Coming soon,” the agency wrote, alongside the highly-anticipated debut date. However, additional details about the group’s upcoming debut have yet to be disclosed. 

 

Meet EVNNE

In early August, Jellyfish Entertainment announced that they’re forming a seven-member boy group. 

Former Boys Planet contestants Ji Yoon Seo, Keita, Lee Jung Hyun, Moon Jung Hyun, Park Han Bin, Park Ji Hoo, and Yoo Seung Eon were confirmed to be part of the lineup. 

 

According to the agency, these individuals captured the public’s interests despite not making it to the official debut group.

Initially, the group was supposed to be named BLIT. However, they changed the name to EVNNE to avoid potential negative connotations. 

Pronounced as “even,” the new name symbolizes a rising star in the night sky. 

Although there’s no additional details about EVNNE’s upcoming release yet, Jellyfish Entertainment is already making the group’s presence on social media known. 

 

After Boys Planet

Interestingly, EVNNE is not the only group that was formed after the hit survival series. 

Besides EVNNE, Anthonny Iinuma, Haruto Maeda, Takuto Toyonaga, and Yuto Takano will also be debut under the group TOZ. They will managed by YY Entertainment. 

Meanwhile, Wang Zi Hao will also make his debut as a solo artist under the stage name Le’v. 

Boys Planet, which started with 93 trainees, gave birth to the formation of the debut team ZEROBASEONE or ZB1. 

The group’s members include Sung Han-bin, Kim Ji Woong, Zhang Hao, Seok Matthew, and Kim Tae-rae. Ricky, Kim Gyu-vin, Park Gun-wook, and Han Yu-jin are also part of the lineup.

On July 10, ZB1 made their debut with the mini-album YOUTH IN THE SHADE. Shortly after, YOUTH IN THE SHADE set the record for being the best-selling debut album in K-pop history. Over 1,240,700 copies were sold in just 24 hours of sales. 

Additionally, ZB1 is a project group that will promote under WakeOne Entertainment, a CJ ENM subsidiary. 

Featured image: Jellyfish Entertainment’s newest boy group EVNNE confirms debut date. Credit: Twitter/EVNNE

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Here’s Why Ex-after School’s Nana Is Removing Her Tattoos

Nana reveals her tattoos during the 'Glitch' press conference. Credit: Twitter/Nana Archives

Nana, a former member of K-pop girl group After School, is no stranger to being praised for her good looks. 

But in September 2022, she went viral for a different aspect of her visuals: her tattoos.

Wearing a black tube dress, Nana flaunted over seven different tattoos. It was during the press conference for the Netflix series Glitch that the idol-actress revealed that her tattoos were real. “I got the tattoos because I wanted to,” she explained.

Fans were quick to applaud her for being vocal about it given that many South Koreans are still iffy with the idea of having tattoos. 

However, Nana’s tattoos are the talk of the town once again now that she opened up that she’s bidding farewell to them.

In the August 14 episode of Jo Hyunah’s Thursday Night, she said that she’s removing them due to a request from her mother. 

 

Nana’s mom on the actress’ tattoos

Initially, Nana explained that her mother gave full permission with her getting inked. She continued that her mother understood that the tattoos were her emotional and creative outlet during a rough period in her life. 

Additionally, the artist disclosed that getting a tattoo during an emotionally difficult time in her life was a way for her to cope with her struggles. 

 

But recently, her mother expressed her desire in seeing her daughter’s body clean of tattoos once again. 

Instead of getting hurt or angry over her mother’s sentiments, Nana said that she understands where her mother is coming from. The idol-actress guessed that her mother is aware that she’s in a better place now compared to when she got the tattoos. 

Moreover, now that she’s feeling more emotionally stable, it wasn’t difficult for Nana to agree with her mother. 

While some fans are sad that she’s removing her tattoos, others also commended Nana’s great relationship with her mother. 

Featured image: Nana reveals her tattoos during the ‘Glitch’ press conference. Credit: Twitter/Nana Archives

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Look: Snsd’s Hyoyeon Drops Teaser for ‘Picture’

SNSD's Hyoyeon poses for the teaser of 'Forever 1.' Credit: Facebook/SNSD

Save the date because DJ Hyo is releasing new music! 

Girls’ Generation member Hyoyeon released on Wednesday, August 16, the teaser for her highly-anticipated comeback. Featuring red fluorescent lights, the teaser also revealed that the single will be titled Picture, and will be out on September 22. 

Picture will serve as Hyoyeon’s first solo release in over a year following her EDM mini album DEEP. The EP was released in May 2022. 

Hyoyeon made her solo debut in 2018 under the moniker DJ Hyo. Her solo singles include “Sober,” “Punk Right Now,” “Second,” and “Dessert.” 

In a radio interview with Super Junior’s Donghae and Eunhyuk, Hyoyeon opened up about her decision to pursue a career as a DJ. She said that she wanted to combine her hobbies for dancing and listening to a wide range of music. 

“Because I danced before, the music I listened to has a broader spectrum, genre-wise. I wanted to share the songs I like; I wanted to do mixing. I was learning it as a hobby myself, and I heard from other people that I know a lot of songs, that I know the flow well. So because I kept hearing that I’m good, as I learned more, it felt like…it was mine,” she said.

Currently, Hyoyeon is one of the only four Girls’ Generation members that is still under SM Entertainment. 

Sunny recently left the agency after 16 years. Meanwhile, members Seohyun, Tiffany, and Sooyoung left in 2019. 

Although under different agencies, the eight members reunited in August 2022 to release the album Forever 1. It was in celebration of the group’s 15th debut anniversary. 

Girls’ Generation is known for songs “Genie,” “Gee,” “Lion Heart,” and “Oh!” among others. 

Featured image: SNSD’s Hyoyeon in the teaser of ‘Forever 1.’ Credit: Facebook/SNSD

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Fans Speculate That Blackpink’s Lisa Is Dating CEO Frédéric Arnault

BLACKPINK's Lisa and rumored boyfriend Frederic Arnault have been spotted together on several accounts. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK Global

BLACKPINK member Lisa and TAG Heuer CEO Frédéric Arnault further fueled dating rumors after being spotted together at an airport. 

In the photo, Lisa can be seen sitting on a sofa while beside Frédéric. The two were both busy looking at their phones. 

https://twitter.com/blinkwebb/status/1691096134134157312?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw

 

The photo at the airport came days after fans speculated that the two went together in Greece for a vacation. Eagle-eyed fans claimed that the two were posting similar photos of the same tourist spots in Greece. 

https://twitter.com/azertyshit/status/1689276832510554112

 

As of writing, Lisa’s agency and Frédéric camp have yet to address the relationship allegations. 

Following this, Lisa is the third member of BLACKPINK to be embroiled in dating controversies in 2023 alone. Fellow member Jennie is speculated to be dating BTS member V, while Jisoo is confirmed to be dating Ahn Bo Hyun.

Timeline of Lisa and Frédéric’s sightings 

Although Frédéric and Lisa have previously worked together in some events, it was a sighting in Paris in July that sparked dating rumors. 

Photos of the two hanging out together at a restaurant in Paris circulated on social media. And since then, fans have been trying to find clues on the two’s supposed relationship. 

But it was in November 2022 when Frédéric first posted about BLACKPINK on his Instagram. The LMVH heir watched the group’s Born Pink concert in Los Angeles and even shared a photo with the four members. 

 

 Then in January 2023, Frédéric was again seen posing with BLACKPINK, this time in Paris. Also in the photo are France’s President Emmanuel Macron and First Lady Brigitte Macron. 

 

In April 2023, Frédéric attended Coachella. BLACKPINK made history as the first K-pop group to headline the prestigious US-based music festival. 

In May 2023, model Naomi Campbell shared a photo with Lisa, Frédéric, and BTS’ V. 

Outside dating rumors 

Currently, Lisa is embarking on BLACKPINK’s Born Pink world tour. 

Lisa has been named the K-pop soloist with the most Guinness World Records in history. Additionally, she will be inducted in the 2023 Asian Hall of Fame. 

BLACKPINK’s seven-year contract with YG Entertainment is set to expire by August 2023. However, Lisa is rumored to no longer renew with the agency. 

Featured image: BLACKPINK’s Lisa and rumored boyfriend Frederic Arnault have been spotted together on several accounts. Credit: Twitter/BLACKPINK Global

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Exo’s Chen to Hold Belated Wedding Ceremony in October

Chen poses for EXO's 'Cream Soda' teasers. Credit: Facebook/EXO

Chen of K-pop group EXO will be holding a wedding ceremony with his wife in October, three years after first announcing their marriage. 

SM Entertainment confirmed the news to Korean media on Wednesday, August 16. 

According to the agency, the wedding ceremony has been delayed due to circumstances, such as Chen’s military enlistment and his wife’s childbirth. 

Additionally, the label didn’t provide an exact date for the ceremony. However, they added that the couple is currently “quietly preparing” for it. 

In January 2020, Chen first announced that he’s marrying his non-celebrity girlfriend, who was also expecting their first child. Chen and his wife welcomed their first child in April 2020. In January 2022, Chen’s wife gave birth to their second daughter while the idol was in the military. 

Chen’s activities as EXO 

When Chen first announced his relationship, the news was met with mixed reaction from the fans. Some even demanded that the idol leave EXO and even sent protest trucks outside of the agency. 

Despite these sparse negative reactions, Chen still continues his activities as an EXO member. 

The group recently made their comeback with their seventh full-length album EXIST.  EXO is also airing the fourth season of their hit variety show Travel the World on a Ladder. 

As for his solo activities, he released his third mini-album Last Scene in November 2022. 

 

Currently, he’s gearing up to release his first Japanese album Polaris, which will be out on August 17. Chen will also embark on his first solo Japanese tour starting August 19. 

In June, Chen with EXO members Baekhyun and Xiumin had a legal battle with agency SM Entertainment. 

Featured image: Chen poses for EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ teasers. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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“Queendom Puzzle” Names the Seven Members of EL7Z UP

The curtains have finally fallen on Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle, revealing the top seven idols who will grace the stage as members of the new girl group, EL7Z UP. This spin-off of the hit survival show Queendom saw many female idols, including those from active girl groups, fiercely competing for a coveted spot in this unique project group.

The stakes were high. Not only will EL7Z UP release an album, but they’re also slated for a global tour and a special performance at the 2023 MAMA Awards. Interestingly, they don’t have to step away from their original commitments to do all of that. These idols can continue to shine with their original groups or as solo artists, alongside their new roles in EL7Z UP.

The final episode, aired on August 15, was a culmination of talent, hard work, and anticipation. The results were a blend of global and Korean votes, with each accounting for 50% of the final decision. Votes poured in through the Mnet Plus app and, for Korean fans, via text messages.

So, who are the chosen seven?

Topping the list was H1-KEY‘s Hwiseo, who secured a staggering 444,495 votes. Not only did she clinch the top spot in the final lineup, but she also maintained her lead from the semi-finals. Hot on her heels in second place was woo!ah!‘s Nana, with 430,450 votes. She too held her position from the semi-finals, showcasing consistent support from fans.

당신이 퍼즐한 최상의 조합 EL7Z UP! 영광의 자리에 앉은 퀸은?

Purple Kiss‘ Yuki made an impressive leap, moving up three places from the semi-finals to secure the third spot. Lovelyz‘s Kei and WJSN‘s Yeoreum took the fourth and fifth places, respectively. Both demonstrated their unwavering popularity throughout the show.

글로벌 프로젝트 그룹 ‘EL7Z UP’에 합류한 마지막 멤버!

Rocket Punch‘s Yeonhee, with 358,059 votes, was the sixth member to be announced. She managed to climb to her current spot from her previous ranking in the semi-finals. Rounding out the seven members was CLC‘s Yeeun, who garnered 350,517 votes.

Good luck to the EL7Z UP members

The journey to the finale was filled with surprising twists and turns. For instance, Cherry Bullet‘s Bora, who had ranked high in the initial episodes, faced a shocking elimination. Such moments added to the suspense and unpredictability of the show.

In conclusion, congratulations are in order for the debut members of EL7Z UP. Their journey has just begun, and the world eagerly awaits their contributions to the music industry. As for fans who wish to relive the excitement, all episodes of Queendom Puzzle are available with subtitles on Viki.

Good luck to Hwiseo, Nana, Yuki, Kei, Yeorum, Yeonhee, and Yeeun—the EL7Z UP girls! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After several weeks, we have the EL7Z UP lineup! Source: Twitter/@iamtheGuj.

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