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BTS’ RM Delivers Inspirational Speech as MAKRI Ambassador

RM is proving that the MDA (Ministry of National Defense) Agency for KIA (Killed in Action) Recovery & Identification chose right. The BTS leader delivered an inspiring speech at his appointment ceremony as the new public relations ambassador for MAKRI.

BTS Leader RM Chosen as New MAKRI PR Ambassador

On June 1, RM attended the MAKRI appointment ceremony as the organization’s new PR ambassador. During the ceremony, the BTS rapper accepted his new role with a gracious speech.

“First of all, it is a sincere honor to serve such great people as the public relations ambassador for the KIA Recovery and Identification Organization. This year marks the 10th anniversary of BTS’ debut,” Kim Namjoon said.

“Over the past 10 years, we have conveyed numerous messages through diverse songs and campaigns,” he added. “However, I have often reflected on how to reciprocate the love that we’ve received from our Korean fans and fellow citizens.”

“It started with an interest in what I can do to express and represent my love for Korea and its culture,” RM continued. “Visiting museums showcasing Korea’s traditional ancient art and modern, contemporary Korean art was integral to this personal exploration.”

“I sincerely believe that BTS and I can dare to be here in 2023 because there are many people who have worked hard in their respective positions until the country, which was devastated by the Korean War and more, prospered beautifully like this. We give you our infinite gratitude and respect.”

RM Explains How MAKRI Helps South Korean Citizens

RM then shared how being the new ambassador for MAKRI is in line with BTS’ goals. He also explained how the organization helps the citizens of South Korea reunite with lost relatives.

“Lastly, I am honored and proud of myself because I was able to participate in meaningful work with the many people who participated in this event today. I will also work hard to become helpful to the KIA Recovery and Identification Organization even a little. Thank you,” the rapper concluded.

RM and the rest of BTS are currently preparing for their 10th-anniversary celebration BTS Festa 2023 which kicked off on June 1, 2023.

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Jisoo To Sit Out BLACKPINK’s Osaka Concerts Due To COVID-19

Jisoo will not be joining the rest of BLACKPINK in their upcoming schedules. The “Flower” singer has tested positive for COVID-19 and will miss out on the BORN PINK Osaka dates this weekend.

YG Entertainment Announces Jisoo’s Absence From BLACKPINK’s Osaka Dates

YG Entertainment issued a statement regarding Jisoo’s current condition on Weverse. The agency confirmed that although Kim Jisoo wants to perform in Osaka, she will need to rest.

“Jisoo had mild cold symptoms on May 30,” the statement read. “She initially tested negative in a self-diagnosis kit but tested positive today.”

“Jisoo showed a strong will to perform for the tour to keep her promise to fans who have been waiting for a long time. But inevitably, we have decided it would be best for her not to participate in the performance for the safety of everyone as well as the artist’s health.”

The statement then announced that BLACKPINK will perform with three members this weekend.

“Accordingly, only three members – Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé – will participate in the [BORN PINK] world tour concert held in Osaka, Japan on June 3 and 4,” YG confirmed.

“Knowing the expectations and anticipation of the fans who have been waiting for the performance, we will do our best to present the performance as scheduled. We will do our best not only for Jisoo’s quick recovery but also for the health and safety of our artists,” the statement concluded.

Jisoo had previously performed with the rest of BLACKPINK at the BORN PINK Bangkok date. Hopefully, Kim Ji-soo will be able to join Jennie, Rosé, and Lisa in the next scheduled concerts.

In related news, Jisoo was recently given the Hanteo Chart Initial Chodong Certification Award for becoming the first female soloist to be a million seller. She was given the award for the success of her debut solo single “Flower” from the single album ‘ME’.

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B.I. Finally Addresses Past Controversy, Apologizes For ‘Wrong Choices’

B.I. is already preparing for the second part of his solo EP 'Love or Loved' and has finally revealed his comeback date

It has been several years but B.I. is still affected by the past. The former iKON member has finally addressed his 2019 drug controversy that led to his expulsion from the group. Kim Hanbin also apologized to his supporters for his “wrong judgements and choices.”

B.I. Finally Opens Up About Drug Controversy, Issues Apology For ‘Wrong Judgements and Choices’

On June 1, B.I. attended a media showcase for his second studio album ‘TO DIE FOR’ at Shinhan Play Square Live Hall in Mapo-gu, Seoul. Kim Hanbin was notably nervous during a Q&A session with the press. This would be the first time he would face reporters since his 2019 drug controversy.

Before the session started, B.I. decided to issue a statement.

“There is something I would like to address first,” he said in a trembling voice.

“I would like to apologize for disappointing many people and causing social controversy due to my past wrong judgments and choices.”

B.I. continued by acknowledging the concerns surrounding his actions.

“I have nothing to say except that I am sorry,” he said. “Not a single day has gone by where I have felt at ease. I am always self-reflecting and am repenting.”

Kim Han-bin then admitted that he decided to promote as a solo artist to give back to his supporters.

“I began promoting again with the heart to repay the debt,” he said. “I don’t think that self-reflecting and repenting ends after a certain period. it’s different depending on each person but I will live self-reflecting with a heavy heart for the rest of my life.”

On June 2019, it was revealed that B.I. had tried to purchase marijuana and LSD back in 2016. The drugs were purchased from a female drug dealer and the rapper had reportedly used the marijuana he purchased. Moreover, Kim Hanbin allegedly evaded police charges.

B.I. later took to social media to apologize for the controversy and announced his departure from iKON and YG Entertainment. In September 2021, he was sentenced to a probationary period of 4 years. If the rapper commits more drug-related crimes during the probationary period, he will be sentenced to at least 3 years in prison.

Although he still feels guilt for the controversy, B.I. continues to make music. He recently released his second full album ‘To Die For’ on June 1, 2023.

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EXO’s Xiumin, Baekhyun and Chen Respond to SM’s Statement

Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen continue to fight back against SM Entertainment. The EXO members issued a new statement regarding the decision to terminate their exclusive contracts. Their legal representative responded to SM’s claims that a third party influenced the termination.

Xiumin, Baekyun, and Chen Issue New Statement In Response to SM Entertainment

Lee Jae Hak of the law firm LIN is the lawyer representing Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen. They issued a statement on behalf of Byun Baek Hyun, Kim Min Seok, and Kim Jong Dae in response to SM Entertainment’s recent claims.

The statement addresses five points starting with SM Entertainment’s “claim of an external influence’s intervention.”

“Our artists are definitely adults who can think for themselves and take responsibility for their own decisions, and they are individuals with independent thoughts and judgments,” it read.

“They have felt some doubts for a decade, and they mustered up fearful and difficult courage with the thought that the questions they couldn’t dare bring up as rookies should at least be brought up now.”

“Our artists asked and listened to many people around them about what is right and what they need to do to find wise solutions. Of those people around them, there are family and acquaintances, seniors and juniors of the music industry, colleagues, and even staff who have worked together with the artists.”

The statement also addresses SM Entertainment’s claims that Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen tried to sign contracts with other companies.

“SM is claiming that our artists have signed or attempted to sign dual contracts, but the three individuals Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin have not signed or attempted to sign other exclusive contracts besides their current exclusive contracts signed with SM. SM must refrain from making false claims,” it read.

Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen Criticize SM For Mishandling Contract Termination

The statement continued by criticizing the way SM Entertainment had handled the situation.

“SM not even providing settlement data, and their legal representative and other celebrities advising them about the injustice of this situation. This inevitably raises the question of who should be criticizing the wrongdoing of who in this situation.”

“We would like to state again that the essence and truth of this case is that the artists and their legal representative have consistently requested the provision of settlement data, but SM eventually refused, which has led to contract termination.”

In the end, the statement confirms that Byun Baek Hyun, Kim Min Seok, and Kim Jong Dae plan to continue EXO group activities. The singers have proposed ideas on how they can keep promoting with EXO after leaving SM Entertainment.

On June 1, Xiumin, Baekhyun, and Chen notified SM Entertainment regarding the termination of their exclusive contracts. The statement was delivered by their legal representative. SM has since refuted the EXO members’ basis for contract termination.

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MONSTA X I.M. On Writing Love Songs For Solo Album ‘OVERDRIVE’

I.M. is ready to talk about love. The MONSTA X maknae is opening up about the love songs in his upcoming EP ‘OVERDRIVE’. In addition to that, the “God Damn” rapper revealed what he looks for in a person.

I.M. Explains Why ‘OVERDRIVE’ Features So Many Love Songs

Im Changkyun recently collaborated with Cosmopolitan Korea for the magazine’s June issue. In addition to the photo shoot, I.M. sat down for an interview and discussed the songs in his new EP. When it was brought up that ‘OVERDRIVE’ is mostly love songs, I.M. pointed out that it is unavoidable.

“I think love is just something you can’t help, that passes by, that floats by, that you send off. That’s also similar to my personality,” he said.

During the interview, it was mentioned that love is “a greater force that drives artists to create and sing.” I.M. quickly agreed saying, “To add to that, I think of love as uniqueness. Uniqueness that does not change even as time goes by and locations change.”

So what is it that Im Changkyun loves about people? The “Happy To Die” rapper says that his likes are complicated.

“I don’t hold on to people who leave, but I also kind of block people who come,” he said.

I.M. explained, “I don’t like shallow people. As you talk to someone, can’t you feel their depth? I like people with depth. Even if they’re swayed momentarily on the surface, I believe that depth doesn’t change.”

He then confirmed with a laugh that he has a lot of deep thoughts. “Me? I’m not a shallow person,” I.M. said.

As for fans who are struggling to find love, Im Changkyun had some interesting advice.

“Real love does not isolate. It connects us. So even if it’s hard, please love,” he said. “Even if the target is not necessarily a lover, it’s good even if it’s ‘stanning.’ Love connects you with the world.”

I.M. is currently preparing for his first solo album ‘OVERDRIVE’ which will be released on June 23, 2023.

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Ferragamo Confirms NCT’s Jeno as First Global Male Ambassador

Ferragamo has found its new global ambassador. NCT member Jeno was chosen to represent the Italian luxury brand in its upcoming international campaigns.

NCT’s Jeno Named Ferragamo’s First Global Male Ambassador

The official Ferragamo Instagram account confirmed the news with a new image of Jeno.

“Ferragamo is pleased to announce K-pop artist Jeno Lee as the brand’s first global male ambassador,” the caption reads. “This partnership seals the relationship between Ferragamo and Jeno, who have started building ties prior to this announcement.”

The post also shares a statement from the brand’s Creative Director Maximilian Davis who is thrilled to be working with the NCT member.

“We’re driven by the same passion in our creativity and feel fortunate to have him join Ferragamo,” Davis said.

Lee Jeno admits that he is already hyped up about the collaboration.

“I am very excited to create a synergy with the brand and looking forward to disclosing our future projects! Stay tuned on both of us!'” the NCT Dream member said.

Being the first global male ambassador for Ferragamo is certainly a great honor for Jeno. Needless to say, fans are already looking forward to the new campaigns.

It’s no surprise that Jeno was chosen by Ferragamo. He started out as a child model before becoming a trainee for SM Entertainment. Lee Jeno is also the first K-pop artist to open for a New York Fashion Week show when he walked for Peter Do’s spring 2023 collection show.

In related news, fellow NCT member Doyoung was recently announced as the new ambassador for Dolce & Gabbana.

“I’m truly excited to become part of the great Dolce & Gabbana family. I feel a strong connection that I think can give rise to a powerful synergy between me and the brand. I’m really looking forward to seeing what Dolce & Gabbana and I will create together,” Doyoung said of the collaboration.

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MONSTA X’s I.M. On Why He Decided To Leave Starship Entertainment

I.M. is finally opening up about his departure from Starship Entertainment. The MONSTA X rapper revealed the real reason why he left the agency to sign with Sony Music Korea.

I.M. Reveals Why He Decided Against Renewing His Contract With Starship Entertainment

Im Changkyun recently teamed up with Cosmopolitan Korea for a sexy photo shoot in the magazine’s upcoming June issue. In the accompanying interview, I.M. spoke about his first solo effort with a new agency.

The MONSTA X maknae confirmed that he left Starship Entertainment to express himself better in his own music. Additionally, I.M. admitted he was craving a new environment.

“It was also a period where I needed the stimulation that comes from a new environment,” he said. “When I feel stable, I start to get complacent.”

“I’m not sure if it’s because I lived in Boston and Israel when I was younger and have experience dropping out of middle school to get home-schooled but I don’t have fears related to being placed in new environments,” I.M. added.

Im Changkyun also confirmed that he is aware of what he needs at any given moment, especially when it’s time to write music.

“I believe that the ego is straightened up when you’re isolated by yourself,” he said. “I quietly think about my inner self all the way to the bottom and face my honest emotions. Then I take those and use them when writing songs.”

“I’m only able to have these moments in the studio,” I.M. added.

“A thought I’ve had recently while reflecting on myself is that I will not dwell on failure,” he continued. “I think it’s fine to sing solo in front of 500 people after performing as an idol in venues that accommodate 15,000 people. It’s okay to head back to the ground.”

Back in August 2022, Im Changkyun decided not to renew his contract with MONSTA X’s agency. He later signed with Sony Music Korea.

I.M. is currently preparing for his first solo album ‘OVERDRIVE’ which will be released on June 23, 2023. It will be Im Changkyun’s first album after leaving Starship Entertainment.

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Sabrina Carpenter Gushes About Joining BLACKPINK at BST Hyde Park

Imagine being on the same stage as your biggest inspiration. That’s exactly what will happen to Sabrina Carpenter at the British Summer Time Hyde Park music festival. The “Can’t Blame a Girl for Trying” singer is a longtime BLINK. So it’s no surprise that she’s understandably excited about sharing the stage with BLACKPINK.

Longtime BLINK Sabrina Carpenter Raves About Sharing The Stage With BLACKPINK

The official MTV Twitter account shared a video featuring Sabrina Carpenter talking about joining the BST Hyde Park line-up. The “Girl Meets World” star spoke about being a fan of BLACKPINK and how she’s excited to be in the event with them.

“Anyone who knows me knows that I love BLACKPINK,” Carpenter said. “I have been a fan of theirs for a long time and performing with them at the British Summer Time Hyde Park music event will be a dream come true.”

“I have never made a presence in London so this year will be my first,” she continued. “Doing this event with them will be great, I need to be super present that day, I don’t want to miss a beat, they are amazing and so talented.”

It’s certainly an exciting opportunity for Sabrina Carpenter. Needless to say, fans are already looking forward to BST Hyde Park this July.

BLACKPINK will headline BST Hyde Park on July 2, 2023. They will be joined by Sabrina Carpenter, The Rose, Caity Baser, Mae Stephens, and more. The additional acts will be announced soon. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

In related news, BLACKPINK member Jennie recently opened up about the passing of her first dog Kai. The “Solo” singer admitted that her pet’s demise was devastating for everyone in their family including their other dog Kuma. Jennie also revealed that her mother was the one who was affected the most by the loss.

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YG Entertainment Addresses WINNER Mino’s Attendance at Sister’s Wedding in San Francisco

YG Entertainment is addressing Mino’s recent trip to the US. The agency offered an explanation of how the WINNER rapper attended his sister’s wedding despite his military enlistment in March.

WINNER’s Mino Attends Song Dana’s US Wedding Despite Military Enlistment

On May 28, Song Dana got married in San Francisco, California. The former New F.O. member was escorted down the aisle by her older brother Song Minho. The WINNER rapper was beaming with pride as he walked down the aisle with his sister.

https://twitter.com/OnlyLookAtMino/status/1662740065834131456

Although people were happy for Song Dana on her special day, netizens also wondered how Mino managed to leave South Korea. Back in March, YG Entertainment had confirmed Song Minho enlisted for military service and would serve as a social worker.

Since then, YG Entertainment has addressed Mino’s attendance at the US wedding despite currently serving in the military.

“Song Mino was granted leave due to a family wedding,” the agency told News1. “It is possible to travel overseas during the military service period, but only for significant family events.”

There is a possibility that Song Minho immediately processed his leave from military service as soon as his sister’s wedding date was announced. Mino clearly wanted to be present for Song Dana’s special day and was eager to walk her down the aisle in place of their late father.

In related news, Mino’s fellow WINNER member Kang Seung Yoon announced that he is enlisting for military service in June.

“Kang Seung Yoon will be enlisting on June 20 to receive basic military training and is expected to serve as an active duty soldier in the army,” YG Entertainment confirmed in a statement.

“Respecting Kang Seung Yoon’s wish to enlist quietly, the time and location of his enlistment will remain confidential, and there will be no separate events on the day. We kindly ask for your understanding,” it continued.

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SHINee Confirms June Comeback With New Album ‘HARD’

SHINee is getting ready for their next full album. Onew, Key, Minho, and Taemin are currently preparing for a June comeback with a new LP ‘HARD’. In addition to that, the group will hold their first offline concert in Seoul in almost six years next month.

SHINee Confirms June Comeback With Eighth Full Album ‘HARD’

The official SHINee Twitter account dropped the first teaser for ‘HARD’ along with a new logo and header. The new LP, which is set to be the group’s eighth full album, will be released on June 26, 2023.

This is awesome news considering that it has been almost two years since SHINee released any full-group content. The last group effort was the Japanese EP ‘Superstar’ back in June 2021.

SHINee clearly has big plans for their June comeback. SM Entertainment also confirmed that the group will hold a three-night concert series ‘SHINee WORLD VI [PERFECT ILLUMINATION]’. The concerts will be held at Seoul’s KSPO Dome on June 23, 24, and 25, 2023.

Taemin had already told SHAWOLs about the concerts during SHINee’s 15th-anniversary fan meeting. During the event, the “Move” singer confirmed that the group would be holding a concert next month. In addition to that, he teased that the upcoming June comeback will not be their only comeback this year.

SHINee recently held their 15th-anniversary fan meeting ‘Everyday is SHINee DAY: Piece of SHINE’ at the Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Songpa, Seoul. The event was initially set to be held at the Ilsan Korea International Exhibition Center [KINTEX].

However, fans were unhappy about the seating arrangements in the venue. After SHAWOLs boycotted the event, SM Entertainment decided to move the fan meeting to a new venue.

The three-night concert series ‘SHINee WORLD VI [PERFECT ILLUMINATION]’ will be held at Seoul’s KSPO Dome on June 23, 24, and 25, 2023. SHINee’s eighth full album ‘HARD’ will be released on June 26, 2023.

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