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“WELCOME HOME GYM-IN” Trends as BTS’ Jimin Returns to Instagram

Jimin

BTS‘ Jimin recently set social media ablaze with a fresh post on Instagram Stories. The t-shirt he wore in his post caught the attention of fans worldwide. It was a beige tee with “AGUST D D-DAY” emblazoned across the front. Fans realized he wore SUGA’s concert merch to go work out, so they freaked out on social media. This caused “WELCOME HOME GYM-IN” to trend on Twitter.

Jimin’s fans, affectionately known as ARMY, were happy to see him return to social media. One fan expressed their elation with, “The world is a happy place again!” Another fan chimed in, celebrating his use of emojis, “We love Instagrammer Jimin.” Their overwhelming sentiment was clear: ARMY missed Jimin and they were ecstatic about his return.

A ripple effect

But Jimin‘s impact isn’t limited to social media. He’s also making waves in music. Recently, he broke artist and song chart records on Spotify, the world’s premier music streaming platform. On August 11, he became the first (and so far only) Korean/K-pop soloist to mark 150 days on the Global Daily Top Artists chart. Jimin also secured his 21st week on the Global Weekly Top Artists list. 

His single “Like Crazy” also made waves. As of August 9, it celebrated its 75th day on the Spotify USA Daily Top Songs chart. It surpassed Lisa’s “Money” and set the record for longest-charting hit by a K-pop solo artist. Moreover, the track has stayed in the Top 50 of the Global Daily Top Songs chart for 131 days, further solidifying its position as the longest-charting song by a K-pop soloist in the Top 50.

The success of “Like Crazy” has had a ripple effect on Jimin‘s album FACE. Just a few days ago, it became the most streamed album by a Korean solo artist in Spotify’s history. Now, having earned a staggering 933 million streams in 141 days, FACE clinched another title: the most streamed album of 2023 by a K-pop act on Spotify.

In a related accolade, Genius recognized “Like Crazy” as the best K-pop male song of 2023.

How deeply fans missed Jimin

Finally, a recent poll conducted from August 6 to 12 proclaimed him the idol who looks best in a rash guard. In addition to the overwhelming response to his Instagram story and music, that poll reveals a deeper narrative. It’s not just about a celebrity’s accolades or online presence; it’s a testament to how deeply Jimin was missed by his fans. 

Every comment, tweet, and vote underscores a collective yearning for his presence, showcasing the profound bond between an artist and his admirers. Jimin‘s brief hiatus only served to remind fans of the joy and inspiration the singer brings into their lives. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin continues to endear himself to listeners worldwide. Source: SBS.

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Kim Sejeong’s Ethereal Beauty Is on Full Display in “Door” Concept Photos

Kim Sejeong, a renowned actress and singer, recently unveiled the mesmerizing KEY version of her teaser images for Door, her first full-length album. Scheduled for release on September 4, 2023, at 6:00 pm KST, this album signifies her return to the K-pop realm after a hiatus of two years and five months.

Although Kim Sejeong has garnered acclaim for her acting prowess, she’s no stranger to the K-pop world. She previously graced stages as a member of K-pop groups I.O.I, Gugudan, and its sub-group Gugudan SeMiNa. Her concept photos, radiating a dreamlike, ethereal aura, left fans spellbound, leading many to dub her a “living fairy.”

The anticipation for her September comeback is palpable. Since announcing her return, Kim Sejeong has been consistently feeding the excitement of her fans. She teased them with a “coming soon” image, followed by a mysterious black-and-white teaser the next day. She then posted a comeback scheduler on August 10, giving fans a glimpse of what to expect leading up to the album’s launch.

Social media is abuzz with reactions from Sesangs (Kim Sejeong‘s ardent fans). Many are eagerly awaiting the LOCK version of her teasers. 

Kim Sejeong has a lot up her sleeve

Kim Sejeong‘s last batch of new material dropped in March 2021 with the mini-album I’m. Sejeong delighted fans with a special remake album and contributed her vocals to Love, Maybe, an OST for the 2022 drama Business Proposal, in which she also starred.

Beyond her musical achievements, Kim Sejeong has showcased her versatility with performances in popular dramas like the aforementioned Business Proposal and The Uncanny Counter. In the latter, she plays Do Ha-na, a “grim reaper” of sorts. She earned praise for executing the demanding action sequences her role requires.

As she gears up for her album launch, Kim Sejeong isn’t stopping there. She’s also preparing for her first solo concert tour. It will take her to 11 cities, commencing in Seoul on September 23-24, 2023. Fans across Asia and Oceania, from Tokyo to Sydney, can look forward to seeing her live. The tour’s finale is set for November 19, 2023.

Kim Sejeong‘s return to the K-pop scene is shaping up to be a monumental event. With her ethereal concept photos for Door and an upcoming concert tour, her fans have a lot to be excited about. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sejeong really does look like a fairy. Source: Twitter/@0828_kimsejeong.

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Meet the Japanese Idol Who Left Her Group to Join the Korean Band “QWER”

Lee Siyeon‘s musical journey is a testament to the power of dreams and determination. While many Japanese artists go to South Korea to chase stardom, Siyeon did the opposite. She first made her mark in Japan as a member of the renowned idol group NMB48, based in Osaka’s Namba district. With millions of CDs sold, NMB48‘s influence in the J-pop scene is undeniable.

Siyeon’s introduction to NMB48‘s fans was memorable. At a 2021 concert in Osaka, she delivered a solo performance of “Yume wa Nigenai,” a song originally by NMB48 trainees from 2018. Despite being a trainee (or “kenkyuusei” as they’re called in Japan), Siyeon showcased her talent on stage, a privilege she might not have had if she pursued her dreams in South Korea.

#NMB48 Lee Siyeon “Yume wa Nigenai” di NMB48 Live 2021

However, her journey wasn’t without challenges. Initially auditioning for NMB48 the previous year, the COVID-19 pandemic hindered her plans. Undeterred, Siyeon auditioned again, and this time, she made it. Her love for the 48 Groups was evident from a young age, and she aspired to reach the top of NMB48 and perform in the prestigious Kouhaku Uta Gassen, a yearly New Year’s Eve TV special in Japan.

But now she has her sights set on making it big in the Korean music industry. Siyeon joined the girl band QWER, a project started by YouTuber Kim Gyeran. As its main vocalist, Siyeon completed the band’s lineup, marking a new chapter in her musical journey. Here’s proof of her undeniable talent: a soul-stirring rendition of BoA’s “Meri Kuri.”

メリクリ (Meri Kuri)/ BoA – Covered by NMB48 Lee Siyeon

About the group Lee Siyeon joined

QWER has already created a significant buzz in the K-pop world, even before their official debut. The members’ unique stage names, particularly that of Nyangnyongnyeongnyang, the guitarist and keyboardist, caught the attention of many. Also referred to as Hina in the group’s YouTube videos, she has been a significant talking point because she has four million TikTok followers. Known for her cosplaying, her real identity was a mystery until the QWER project began.

Under Kim Gyeran’s guidance, the members currently live and practice together in preparation for their official debut. With such dedication and talent, QWER promises to bring a fresh, unique wave of music and performances to the global K-pop stage.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aEQ3VbIqIgw

NMB48 Lee Siyeon’s First Swimsuit Gravure released on 2023.05.08

Lee Siyeon’s transition from NMB48 to QWER highlights the fluidity of the music industry across borders. Her story serves as an inspiration for many, proving that with passion, perseverance, and talent, dreams can become reality. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Siyeon graduated from NMB48 after receiving backlash for a photoshoot. Source: Twitter/@48RequestHour.

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Finally! Survival Show Winners FANTASY BOYS to Debut in September

The K-pop industry is no stranger to talent, but once in a while, a group emerges that captures the world’s attention. Enter FANTASY BOYS, the winners of the MBC global audition program. After months of anticipation, the group has finally confirmed their official debut in September.

Composed of 12 members, FANTASY BOYS is a unique blend of charisma and talent. Each member was handpicked by global audiences, a testament to their appeal. The lineup includes Hikari, Hikaru, Hong Sung Min, Kaeden, Kang Min Seo, Kim Gyu Rae, Kim Woo Seok, KSoul, Lee Han Bin, Lingqi, Oh Hyeon Tae, and Yu Jun Won. With such a diverse group, fans are eagerly awaiting the range of music and performances they will bring to the table.

Even before their official debut in Korea, the group has been actively promoting in Japan. They held a fan-con in Tokyo last July 9, which was met with overwhelming enthusiasm. They also made several TV appearances and participated in offline events, building a strong foundation for their upcoming debut.

The future is bright for FANTASY BOYS

But it’s not just their activities that have fans buzzing. In July, FANTASY BOYS unveiled a set of group and individual profile photos. Oozing charisma and elegance, those photos gave fans a taste of the group’s style. Fans and industry insiders alike praised their concept and visuals.

Going from being on a survival show to debuting isn’t easy. It requires determination, talent, and a lot of hard work. Luckily, FANTASY BOYS have those qualities in spades, and they showcased them throughout their time on the show. Their dedication to their craft and fans is evident in everything they do.

웰컴 투 판타지 월드 njfz#(NeW Joyful Fantasy Zone)

As the days inch closer to their official debut, their fans’ excitement is palpable. They’re gearing up to support the group in the next chapter of their career. Social media is abuzz with well-wishes for leader Yu Junwon and his members. With such a strong foundation and worldwide anticipation, the future is bright for these talented young artists. Stay tuned for more updates on their journey and upcoming projects. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: After promoting in Japan, the group will make their South Korean debut. Source: Twitter/@fantasyboys_twt.

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CNBLUE’s Yonghwa to Release a New Album Next Month

CNBLUE fans are buzzing with anticipation as the act’s main vocalist, Yonghwa, prepares for a solo comeback. Reports from media outlets on August 15th confirm that the singer is set to release his new solo album in September. This report sent shockwaves of excitement throughout the CNBLUE fandom, especially since it marks his first solo album release in South Korea after six years.

Back in July of 2017, Yonghwa graced the music world with his first mini album titled Do Disturb. Since that release, he has been primarily active in China and Japan, delighting fans with music and more. Additionally, he has contributed to OSTs and engaged in special collaborations, showcasing his versatility as an artist.

What does Yonghwa have in store?

While his previous works have been well-received, the upcoming album holds a special place for both Yonghwa and his fans. It signifies his return to the Korean music scene as a soloist, a move eagerly awaited by many. Their anticipation is palpable—in fact, as of this writing, CNBLUE fans are making a lot of noise on social media. They’re wondering what the singer has in store for them.

But CNBLUE’s main vocalist doesn’t plan to stop at simply releasing an album. Fans can expect a slew of promotional activities accompanying his comeback. From interviews to performances, he’s gearing up to engage with his supporters on multiple fronts. This proactive approach ensures that everyone will have ample opportunities to connect with him and his music.

Yonghwa’s upcoming solo album is more than just a collection of songs. It represents his journey as an artist and his commitment to his fans. With the release date drawing closer, their excitement is building, and the music world is eagerly awaiting what promises to be a stellar comeback. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Yonghwa is set to make a splash in SK with his long-awaited solo comeback. Source: Twitter/@CNYongvely.

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Jyp Entertainment Takes Legal Action for Malicious Posts Against Itzy

ITZY shares behind-the-scene photo from filming 'Cake.' Credit: Facebook/ITZY

JYP Entertainment has taken legal action against online users who published malicious posts and comments against their artist, K-pop girl group ITZY. 

In a statement on Monday, August 14, the agency said that they have “secured evidence on all actions that insult and defame the honor and image of our artists.”

They added that the securing of evidence was done through an internal and external monitoring system. 

 

According to the label, the acts they’ve flagged include malicious slander, and circulation of false information. It also includes sexual harassment, illegal filming, and the creation and circulation of fake content. 

JYP Entertainment then declared that they’ve coordinated with a specialized law firm to continue with the legal proceedings. 

Additionally, the agency said that they will actively monitor and act against possible threats to ITZY. 

 

“We will continue to take strong civil and criminal action for all actions that are defamatory and disrupt healthy activities of the artists and that there will be no leniency or settlement in that process,” they said. 

Moreover, JYP Entertainment also asked fans to send tips to their work email in case they have evidence on said violations. 

“We will do our best in order for no harm to be done to not only the artists but also to all the fans who love ITZY,” the agency ended their statement.

Idols’ safety and security

JYP Entertainment is the latest agency to crack down on harmful attacks against their artists. 

Recently, WakeOne Entertainment filed criminal charges against individuals who threatened the personal security of ZEROBASEONE members. 

Meanwhile, SM Entertainment also filed a complaint against an online user who sent death threats to aespa’s Winter. The agency also heightened the security of the group as they’re currently on their concert tour in the United States.  

Another is Starship Entertainment, who also sued YouTubers who published false content regarding their artists, specifically IVE. 

In terms of these legal battles about idol’s safety, Bae Suzy had the most recent win. The court fined a man who posted libelous comments against the idol-actress in 2015. 

Featured image: ITZY shares behind-the-scene photo from filming ‘Cake.’ Credit: Facebook/ITZY

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a.c.e’s Chan, Donghun, and Jun Change Stage Names

A.C.E. members Donghun, Jun, and Chan pose for a photo. Credit: Twitter/A.C.E Brasil fan page

Beat Interactive announced on August 12 that three members of K-pop boy group A.C.E will make changes in their stage names. 

According to the agency, members Chan, Donghun, and Jun have decided to use their real names instead. 

Meaning, Chan will move forward with his activities as Kang Yuchan, Donghun with Lee Donghun, and Jun with Park Junhee. 

Additionally, Beat Interactive emphasized that members Kim Byeongkwan and WOW made no changes. With this, WOW, whose real name is Kim Se Yoon, is the only A.C.E member to use a stage name. 

“Please look forward to the future activities ahead,” the agency told fans. 

While Beat Interactive didn’t provide any explanation or reason behind the changing of names, it can be noted that the A.C.E members have been using their real names in their acting activities. 

Kang Yungchan has appeared in Age of Youth 2 and Marry Me Now, while Park Junhee starred in Tinted with You and Sometoon 2021. 

Fans also pointed out how their stage names are common among other K-pop groups. And the change would help the A.C.E members be recognized instantly.

The changes came almost six years after the group made their debut in 2017. 

As for A.C.E’s future group activities, there’s no details yet as two members, Kim Beyongkwan and Kang Yungchan, are still in the military. 

Meanwhile, Park Junhee, Lee Donghun, and WOW have all been recently discharged.

Featured image: A.C.E. members Donghun, Jun, and Chan pose for a photo. Credit: Twitter/A.C.E Brasil fan page

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Listen: Stray Kids’ Seungmin Treats Fans With New Solo ‘Hold On’

Stray Kids' Seungmin releases a new solo song. Credit: Twitter/Stray Kids

STAYs were in for a treat! Seungmin of K-pop boy group Stray Kids unveiled a new solo song titled “Hold On” on August 13.

The track is part of Stray Kids’ “SKZ-RECORD” YouTube series. In this series, the Stray Kids members are seen doing covers and unveiling original songs that are not part of the group’s official album or single releases. 

Meanwhile, “Hold On” is composed by Stray Kids members Han and Bang Chan and producer VERSACHOI. Additionally, Han wrote all the lyrics for the track. 

 

Prior to “Hold On,” the other releases under “SKZ-RECORD” includes “Party’s Not Over,” which was released on the fandom’s anniversary.

Changbin, Felix, and Seungmin’s song “Snain” and “Volcano” by Han were also released under “SKZ-RECORD” in 2023. 

A busy Stray Kids in 2023

As for their official releases, Stray Kids released their third studio album 5-STAR in May. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard’s 200 albums chart. With this, 5-STAR became the group’s third top entry following 2022 albums MAXIDENT and ODDINARY. 

Currently, Stray Kids is composed of Bang Chan, Lee Know, Changbin, Hyunjin, Han, Felix, Seungmin, and I.N. It initially debuted as nine-piece act in March 2018. Although, Woonjin left the group in October 2019. 

Their hits include “CASE 143,” “Thunderous, “God’s Menu,” and “Back Door.”

Moreover, the group is known for having their songs produced by 3RACHA, the sub-unit of members Bang Chan, Changbin, and Han. 

In an interview with Teen Vogue, Changbin opened up how important it is for them to take reins on their journey as musicians. 

“At the beginning of our career, I think there was a bit of wandering when it came to our music,” he said. “But through the consistent pursuit and development of our musical color, we were able to establish the Stray Kids genre and become the team we are today.”

Featured image: Stray Kids’ Seungmin releases a new solo song. Credit: Twitter/Stray Kids

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4 ‘Boys Planet’ Contestants to Debut as Toz in Japan

Anthony, Haruto, Takuto, and Yuto are forming the boy group TOZ. Credit: Twitter/The Hallyu News

Following the success of Mnet’s survival talent series Boys Planet, four more contestants from the show are set to turn their idol dreams into a reality. 

YY Entertainment revealed on Monday, August 14 that Anthonny Iinuma, Haruto Maeda, Takuto Toyonaga, and Yuto Takano signed an exclusive contract with their label. 

 

The four Boys Planet alumni are confirmed to form the boy group TOZ, which stands for “To Our Zone.” 

Additionally, the act is aiming to debut in Japan in the latter half of 2023. Final details about the debut album and date have yet to be disclosed. 

Moreover, the agency shared that the upcoming group will promote both in Japan and  Korea in the future. 

As to why they chose these four members, YY Entertainment shared that despite not making it to the debut team, each still gained global popularity among fans for their charms and proficient Korean skills. 

Following the news, TOZ started releasing updates from the members on their social media accounts. 

 

Although a new agency, YY Entertainment is home to B.A.P’s Bang Yong-guk, actor Bae Na-ra, and Lee Joo Ahn, among others. 

Where are the ‘Boys Planet’ contestants? 

Boys Planet, which started with 93 trainees, gave birth to the formation of 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.

ZB1 made their debut on July 10 with the release of their 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. 

ZB1 is a project group that will promote under WakeOne Entertainment, a CJ ENM subsidiary, for around two and a half years. 

Meanwhile, seven contestants from Boys Planet will also debut as the boy group EVNNE under agency Jellyfish Entertainment. 

The septet consists of Ji Yoon Seo, Keita, Lee Jung Hyun, Moon Jung Hyun, Park Han Bin, Park Ji Hoo, and Yoo Seung Eon. 

Featured image: Anthony, Haruto, Takuto, and Yuto are forming the boy group TOZ. Credit: Twitter/The Hallyu News

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Look: Ikon Drops Teasers for ‘Panorama’

iKON poses during their 'Flashback' concert. Credit: Facebook/iKON

Mark your calendars, iKONICs because K-pop boy group iKON is set to release some new music. 

The act surprised fans on Monday, August 14 with a track list for their upcoming single album Panorama. 

Further, the teaser revealed that PANORAMA, which will have two songs, will be released on August 23. 

First, the song “T.T.M,”  which stands for “Talk to Myself,” was co-composed by members DK and Bobby. Meanwhile, Bobby co-wrote the lyrics for the second song “PANORAMA.” 

Aside from the track list, iKON also released individual concept photos for all six members. The posters saw the members looking melancholic. 

 

Fans were also delighted to see a teaser for Jay even if the vocalist already enlisted in the military on July 20. Jay is the first member of iKON to enlist in the military. 

Additionally, PANORAMA comes three months after the group released their third studio album Take Off in May. 

Currently, the group is embarking on their TAKE OFF concert world tour. It includes shows around Asia, Europe, and the United States. 

Composed of Bobby, DK, Chan, Ju-ne, Jay, and Song, iKON debuted in September 2015 under YG Entertainment. They left the agency in December 2022 and signed with 143 Entertainment. 

Featured image: iKON poses during their ‘Flashback’ concert. Credit: Facebook/iKON

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