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SHINee Minho Confirmed to Co-Host 2024 MBC Music Festival

The highly anticipated 2024 MBC Music Festival has announced its dynamic trio of MCs: SHINee’s Minho, Girls’ Generation’s YoonA, and TWS’s Dohoon.

SHINee’s Minho, Girls’ Generation’s YoonA, and TWS’s Dohoon to Host the 2024 MBC Music Festival

The event, which has been given the theme “Wannabe,” will light up the final night of 2024 with spectacular performances and memorable moments. The announcement of the hosts also adds excitement to the awards show.

YoonA, a seasoned host of the MBC Music Festival since 2015, is set to mark her 10th consecutive year as an MC. As one of the industry’s most admired role models, her involvement perfectly aligns with the “Wannabe” theme. YoonA’s poise, charm, and experience are expected to add a reliable and captivating touch to the event.

Minho, who co-hosted last year’s festival with YoonA, will return for his second consecutive year and his third time overall sharing the stage with her (following 2018 and 2023). Known for his quick wit, charisma, and engaging presence, Minho promises to bring energy and flair to the show.

Making his debut as an MC is TWS’s Dohoon, one of the year’s breakout stars. With his hit track “plot twist” dominating music charts, Dohoon also embodies the aspirations of a new generation of “Wannabe” idols. Fans are eager to see how he will shine alongside veteran stars YoonA and Minho, adding fresh energy to the year-end celebration.

The performers and special guests at the highly anticipated event have not yet been announced. However, there is also a huge chance that a new announcement will be made in the upcoming week. Make sure to check this page for more updates on this story.

In the meantime, the 2024 MBC Music Festival will be broadcast live on December 31, featuring unforgettable performances and special stages. Don’t miss this grand celebration to close out the year!

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NewJeans Responds to Lawsuit Filed By ADOR

NewJeans has issued an official statement addressing the ongoing legal battle with their former agency. The girl group have spoken up about the lawsuit filed by ADOR over their exclusive contracts.

NewJeans Responds to Lawsuit Filed by ADOR Over Contract Dispute

The controversy began on November 29, when the members of NewJeans announced their decision to terminate their contracts, citing breaches of agreement by ADOR and the agency’s failure to rectify the issues. The group’s announcement followed an emergency press conference on November 28, where they publicly outlined their grievances, emphasizing the lack of response from ADOR regarding critical contractual violations.

On December 3, ADOR responded by filing a lawsuit with the Seoul Central District Court, seeking to legally validate their exclusive contracts with NewJeans. This move sparked further public debate about the agency’s handling of the matter.

In their December 6 statement, NewJeans reiterated their stance, expressing disappointment in ADOR’s approach to the dispute. The members emphasized their united decision to pursue fair treatment and safeguard their professional and personal integrity, highlighting that the termination of their contracts was not made lightly but as a necessary step to uphold their rights.

“Recently, we learned through the media that ADOR filed a lawsuit seeking confirmation that our exclusive contracts are still valid,” the statement read. “In their statement, ADOR failed to properly assert that there were no breaches of the exclusive contracts, instead repeatedly claiming that the contracts cannot be terminated until the company recoups its support and investments.”

“However, we have already returned profits exceeding the investment to ADOR and HYBE,” it continues. “Despite this, HYBE has attempted various forms of interference, including defamation and reverse viral marketing, to devalue us, and ADOR has allowed this to happen under new management. This is akin to the company producing malicious comments against us, the very artists they are supposed to protect. Considering this breakdown in trust, we have concluded that we are likely to suffer even more harm in the future.”

What Will Happen to NewJeans?

The escalating legal conflict has left fans concerned but hopeful that the talented group will overcome this challenge and continue to shine in their career.

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THE BOYZ to Keep Group Name After IST Entertainment Departure

It’s official: THE BOYZ will continue to promote under their beloved group name!

THE BOYZ Retain Their Group Name Amidst Transition to ONE HUNDRED

On December 5, ONE HUNDRED announced that an amicable agreement had been reached with IST Entertainment over trademark rights to THE BOYZ’s name. The resolution came after a public dispute sparked concerns among fans about the group’s future identity.

“Today (December 5), through a meeting with IST Entertainment, we amicably came to a mutual agreement about the use of the ‘THE BOYZ’ trademark and three major points of discussion,” the statement read. “After resolving our past misunderstandings and opening up in an honest conversation, our company and IST Entertainment came to an agreement that can make everyone happy while prioritizing the members of THE BOYZ and their fans, The B.”

“We would also like to sincerely thank IST Entertainment, who came to this discussion with an open mind,” it added. “We would like to thank The B and the IST Entertainment family, who have walked THE BOYZ’s path together with them for the past seven years, and we ask for your continued interest and loving support in the future as well.”

Following the expiration of their exclusive contracts with IST Entertainment on the same day, all 11 members of THE BOYZ will officially transition to ONE HUNDRED, a new agency co-founded by renowned artist MC Mong and p_Arc Group chairwoman Cha Ga Won.

ONE HUNDRED operates alongside its affiliate labels Big Planet Made—home to notable artists such as Lee Seung Gi and SHINee’s Taemin—and INB100, which represents EXO members Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin. The impressive roster of artists associated with ONE HUNDRED has heightened anticipation for THE BOYZ’s next chapter under this new management.

THE BOYZ, known for hits like “The Stealer”, “MAVERICK”, and “ROAR”, have consistently dazzled fans with their powerful performances and diverse music. With their group name secured and a promising new agency behind them, fans are eager to see what fresh opportunities and achievements lie ahead for the talented group.

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PLEDIS Entertainment Confirm fromis_9 Departure

The time has come. All members of fromis_9 have chosen not to renew their exclusive contracts with their long-time agency.

fromis_9 to Part Ways with PLEDIS Entertainment

On November 29, PLEDIS Entertainment officially announced that fromis_9 would be leaving the agency.

“The exclusive contract with fromis_9 (Lee Sae Rom, Song Ha Young, Park Ji Won, Roh Ji Sun, Lee Seo Yeon, Lee Chae Young, Lee Na Gyung, Baek Ji Heon) will expire this coming December 31,” the statement read. “We discussed at length and in depth with the members of fromis_9 regarding each member’s future and direction and have come to an amicable conclusion to end the exclusive artist contract.”

The announcement also revealed that the group is preparing a final comeback under PLEDIS, set to release in December, before their departure.

“fromis_9 will release their fan song, which is their expression of their gratitude for their fandom flover, on December 23 and attend their final engagements, drawing a close to their official activities as PLEDIS Entertainment artists,” the statement confirmed.

fromis_9 was formed through the survival program “Idol School” and officially debuted in 2018. The group initially consisted of nine members: Roh Ji-sun, Song Ha-young, Lee Sae-rom, Lee Chae-young, Park Ji-won, Lee Seo-yeon, Baek Ji-heon, Jang Gyu-ri, and Park So-yeon. They joined PLEDIS Entertainment in 2021, marking a significant new chapter in their careers. However, the group transitioned to eight members when Jang Gyu-ri departed on July 31, 2022, to pursue individual activities.

Under PLEDIS, fromis_9 gained recognition for their fresh and vibrant sound, releasing popular tracks such as “Stay This Way”, “DM”, and “We Go”. Their unique blend of youthful charm and mature artistry has earned them a dedicated fanbase worldwide.

As their December comeback approaches, fans are eager to support the group in this transitional period. While the announcement has left many curious about their next steps, fromis_9’s enduring popularity suggests a bright future ahead, whether as a group or in individual endeavors.

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Loossemble Members Part Ways With Agency

The members pose for the concept photo of their debut mini-album. Credit: Twitter/LOOSSEMBLE

It’s officially an end of an era. Loossemble members have decided not to renew their exclusive contracts with their agency.

Loossemble Members Officially Part Ways with CTDENM

On November 29, CTDENM announced that the exclusive contracts with all five members of Loossemble—HyunJin, YeoJin, ViVi, Go Won, and HyeJu (formerly Olivia Hye)—had officially come to an end. This marks the conclusion of their time with the agency, which began in the summer of 2023.

“First, we would like to thank you for your precious love and support for the Loossemble members (HyunJin, YeoJin, ViVi, Go Won, and HyeJu),” the statement read. “We are informing you that our exclusive contracts with Loossemble, who has been journeying together with us, have ended.”

“We sincerely thank the Loossemble members, who have shared a meaningful journey together with CTDENM, and we will be rooting for the Loossemble members’ radiant journey in the future. Thank you,” it concluded.

Loossemble’s Wild Beginning

Loossemble was formed after the members parted ways with their previous agency, BlockBerry Creative, which oversaw their time in LOONA. Their move to CTDENM was seen as a fresh start under the leadership of a former BlockBerry Creative employee who founded the agency. Fans hoped the new environment would offer stability and creative freedom for the members after the legal disputes and challenges they faced at their former agency.

In their brief time under CTDENM, Loossemble managed to establish a unique identity separate from LOONA, showcasing their talents through new releases and performances. However, the news of their contracts ending has left fans wondering about the group’s future direction.

While CTDENM did not provide specific reasons for the separation, the announcement has sparked speculation about whether the members will continue as a group under a different agency, pursue individual activities, or explore entirely new ventures.

Fans worldwide have expressed their unwavering support for the members, flooding social media with messages of encouragement and pledging to stand by them in whatever path they choose next. As of now, the future of Loossemble remains uncertain, but their loyal fanbase continues to cheer them on.

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Gaeun Officially Leaves MADEIN

It’s official: Gaeun has decided to leave MADEIN. The decision comes only months after the group’s debut in September.

Gaeun Officially Departs MADEIN Amid Controversy

On November 29 at midnight KST, 143 Entertainment officially announced Gaeun’s departure from MADEIN, marking the end of her activities with the rookie girl group.

“MADEIN’s member Gaeun has officially departed from the team as of today,” the statement read. “Since her debut last September, Gaeun has put in considerable effort for MADEIN’s activities, but due to personal circumstances, she has found it increasingly difficult to continue with the team’s activities, and it has been decided that she will leave the group.”

“From now on, MADEIN will continue with six members: Mashiro, MiU, Suhye, Yeseo, Serina, and Nagomi. All temporarly halted schedules will be carried out as planned,” it continued.

The agency’s statement also directly addressed recent allegations of sexual harassment involving its CEO, denying the claims and labeling them untrue.

“Additionally, we would like to address that the recent allegations regarding sexual harassment are not true and that we have several pieces of clear evidence proving these claims are false. Therefore, should any legal issues arise, we will address them with utmost sincerity and ensure that no doubts remain,” it said.

The Shocking Controversy

The controversy began on November 22, when JTBC’s investigative program “Crime Chief” aired a report detailing allegations of sexual misconduct by an agency CEO against a rookie girl group member. Although the program did not explicitly name the group or agency involved, blurred footage of a music show performance strongly resembled MADEIN, and the description of the group matched them as well. MADEIN debuted in September 2024 under 143 Entertainment, adding weight to the speculation.

The situation escalated when the agency previously announced that Gaeun would be taking a temporary hiatus due to health concerns. This announcement, paired with the timing of the allegations, led many fans and netizens to suspect Gaeun as the individual mentioned in the report. Speculation quickly spread online, casting a shadow over the group’s budding career.

Gaeun’s departure and the agency’s insistence on the falsity of the allegations leave questions unanswered, as fans express both concern for her well-being and frustration over the ongoing controversy. 143 Entertainment has yet to disclose further details about MADEIN’s future activities without Gaeun.

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ADOR Issues Statement After NewJeans Announces Contract Termination

The five members of NewJeans have made the significant decision to leave their agency, ADOR. Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein officially announces contract termination before the end of the month.

NewJeans Members Announces Contract Termination

Earlier this month, on November 13, the group sent a formal certification of contents to ADOR, outlining substantial breaches of their exclusive contracts and demanding rectification within 14 days. In their notice, they warned that failure to address their concerns would result in the termination of their agreements.

On November 28, the members held an emergency press conference to publicly announce their decision. During the conference, they detailed the unresolved issues that led to this drastic step, citing ADOR’s alleged contractual violations and lack of adequate response to their grievances. They emphasized their collective resolve to prioritize their rights and professional integrity over continuing under unfavorable conditions.

“The reason we are leaving ADOR is very simple, and I think the reporters here who know our situation are also all very aware,” they said. “NewJeans is an artist of ADOR, and ADOR is obligated to protect NewJeans. It is the most basic obligation that an agency has. ADOR does not have the will or ability to protect NewJeans. If we remain here, it will be a waste of our time, and our mental distress will continue. More than anything, there is nothing that we can gain in terms of our work, so the five of us think that there is no reason at all for us to remain at ADOR.”

“As a result, the exclusive contracts between NewJeans and ADOR will be terminated as of November 29 at 12 a.m. KST. However, HYBE and ADOR are currently differentiating the two companies like word play, insisting that it cannot be a violation of contract because HYBE is at fault and not ADOR. However, as everyone knows, HYBE and ADOR are pretty much just one entity now. The ADOR that we worked with has already changed a lot, and the directors who were at the company before were all abruptly dismissed. Now they are differentiating HYBE and ADOR, and we really cannot accept the argument that we must maintain our exclusive contracts with the ADOR that has been changed according to what HYBE wants, that has cut off ties with the [music video] director who worked hard with us, that has broken all of this trust. As a result, we demanded rectification regarding the violations of our contract, and as mentioned earlier, the time period for that rectification ends at midnight tonight.”

ADOR Reacts to NewJeans’ Announcement

It didn’t take long before ADOR responded to NewJeans’ announcement, expressing regret over the situation and reiterating their stance.

“ADOR, as a party of the exclusive contracts, has not violated the contracts, and claiming that trust has been unilaterally broken does not constitute grounds for termination,” the statement read. “The exclusive contracts between ADOR and the NewJeans members remain valid. Therefore, we expect them to continue their scheduled activities ahead together with ADOR as they have until now.”

“We have requested several meetings with the artists, but they were not carried out,” it continued. “We hope that even now, we can open our hearts and have sincere conversations together.”

The development marks a significant turning point for NewJeans, who have been widely recognized for their meteoric rise in the K-pop industry. The group’s departure from ADOR has left fans and industry watchers speculating about their next steps and future endeavors.

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Jung Woo Sung Confirmed as Father Of Moon Gabi’s Baby

Actor Jung Woo Sung has been confirmed as the father of Moon Ga Bi’s child, as stated by his agency, Artist Company.

Jung Woo Sung Confirmed as Father of Moon Ga Bi’s Baby

In an official statement, Artist Company acknowledged the report, stating that Jung will take full responsibility for the child and will strive to fulfill his role as a father to the best of his ability. They also emphasized that they had no further comments regarding the personal details of his relationship with Moon Ga Bi.

“The child that Moon Gabi revealed on her social media account is the biological child of actor Jung Woo Sung,” the statement read. “We are currently discussing the best ways to raise the child and he will do his best for the child as the father.”

Reports suggest that Jung Woo Sung and Moon Ga Bi first crossed paths in 2022 at a private gathering. The two maintained contact, and Moon Ga Bi reportedly became pregnant in June 2023. Following confirmation of his paternity through a test, Jung pledged financial support for the child. However, their discussions regarding future plans allegedly revealed differences. While Moon Ga Bi reportedly expressed a desire to get married, Jung Woo Sung was opposed to the idea, which may have led to her recent social media post.

Jung, born in 1973, is a celebrated actor who debuted in 1994 and has maintained a stellar career spanning nearly three decades. Meanwhile, Moon Ga Bi, a model born in 1989, made her television debut in 2017 and has since built a successful career in modeling and media.

The news has garnered widespread attention, with fans expressing mixed reactions to the personal revelations. Despite the challenges, Jung’s commitment to taking responsibility for his child highlights his determination to navigate the situation responsibly while continuing his acting career.

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G-Dragon Awarded ‘Music Visionary of the Year’ at 2024 MAMA Awards

G-Dragon certainly knows how to make waves in the K-pop scene! The BIGBANG leader has been awarded the first ‘Music Visionary of the Year’ award at the 2024 MAMA Awards!

G-Dragon Shines at 2024 MAMA Awards with Performance and Music Visionary Award

K-pop legend G-Dragon made an unforgettable comeback at the 2024 MAMA Awards Japan, held on November 23 at the Kyocera Dome Osaka. This event marked his first appearance at MAMA in nine years, and he was honored as the inaugural recipient of the prestigious Music Visionary of the Year Award.

The award celebrates trailblazing artists who have significantly contributed to the evolution of K-pop, blending innovation with a pioneering spirit. As a new signature accolade of MAMA, the honor acknowledges individuals who challenge norms, inspire change, and leave an indelible mark on the K-entertainment industry.

The Infamous Speech

During his acceptance speech, G-Dragon held a light stick in hand, blending humor with heartfelt gratitude. He began by saying, “It’s been a while, MAMA. It seems I’ve received a meaningful award because they decided to distribute the trophies fairly among us kids.” This playful jab was a nod to his infamous critique of the awards system during a past MAMA performance, sparking cheers from the audience.

He continued, “Personally and as a group, today is a meaningful day. It’s been seven years since I last performed, and it’s been 17 years since I first appeared at MAMA in 2007. Thank you for giving me an award that will remain a beautiful memory on this special day.”

G-Dragon expressed heartfelt thanks to his supporters, including Yang Hyun Suk, YG Family, his new agency Galaxy Corporation, and the BLACK team. He also extended his gratitude to his BIGBANG members and VIPs, the loyal fanbase he described as his “golden lights.” He ended his speech with a lighthearted promise, saying, “I’m not sure if this is a one-time award, but I’ll make sure not to miss it next year either.”

The night was made even more special with G-Dragon’s highly anticipated performance, which was met with thunderous applause. His presence underscored why he remains a cultural icon, seamlessly blending artistry and charisma to captivate fans worldwide.

G-Dragon’s return to the MAMA stage was not only a celebration of his legacy but a reminder of his enduring influence in the K-pop world. His heartfelt words and electrifying performance reaffirmed his position as one of the industry’s most visionary figures.

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Byun Woo Seok Named New Face of Cartier

Byun Woo-seok has proved yet again that he is a force to reckon with. The “Lovely Runner” star has just been confirmed as the new face of Cartier.

‘Lovely Runner’ Star Announced as New Face of Cartier

On November 22, luxury brand Cartier announced that actor Byun Woo-seok has joined its prestigious lineup of ambassadors. Known for his versatility and sophisticated style, Byun Woo-seok is set to embody the creative freedom and individuality that Cartier champions in its designs and philosophy.

Expressing his excitement, Byun Woo-seok shared, “I am happy and excited to join Cartier as an ambassador. I am honored to be working with Cartier, a brand that has continuously challenged creative boundaries across eras while presenting timeless and elegant designs imbued with craftsmanship.”

Byun Woo-seok’s journey to becoming a global icon is as remarkable as it is inspiring. Starting as a fashion model, he transitioned to acting with his debut in the 2016 drama “Dear My Friends.” His career also soared this year with his standout role as the lead vocalist and top actor of the fictional band Eclipse in the tvN drama “Lovely Runner.” His portrayal created what fans are calling the “Byun Woo-seok Syndrome,” with his songs from the drama charting on domestic platforms and even Billboard, showcasing his multifaceted talent.

Building on this momentum, Byun Woo-seok successfully completed his 2024 Asia Fan Meeting Tour, ‘Summer Letter,’ spanning eight cities and 12 sold-out performances. The tour also further cemented his status as a beloved figure both in Korea and internationally.

As Byun Woo-seok steps into his role as Cartier ambassador, fans can also anticipate a series of campaigns and events that blend his innate elegance with Cartier’s storied heritage. This collaboration also underscores his growing influence in fashion and entertainment, and it’s clear that Byun Woo-seok’s star is only set to rise further.

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