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Epik High’s Tablo Reveals What It’s Like to Collab with BTS’ SUGA

South Korean hip-hop artist Tablo, leader of the group Epik High, recently opened up about his life and work in an interview with CNN Brasil. He also talked about what collaborating with BTSSUGA was like. He shared insights into their creative process, revealing the stories behind some of their songs.

When asked about the stories behind some of his songs, like one that was quickly written and one that took longer, he mentioned an old friend: SUGA from BTS. Fans got to see a little more of that friendship when the introverted member of the K-pop group interviewed the Epik High frontman on his talk show, Suchwita, available on YouTube.

At one point in the episode, SUGA even reveals that when he’s going through a tough time and has thoughts like “I’ll never be able to write songs after this,” he plays Epik High’s albums. He revealed that listening to Tablo‘s solos from start to finish makes him feel better.

[슈취타] EP.5 SUGA with 타블로

The stories behind the songs 

Tablo said that the song he composed the fastest, and the one that took the longest to finish, were written with the BTS member and producer. Case in point: Epik High’s “Eternal Sunshine.” “I was talking to SUGA, and I was like, ‘Hey, give me a song,’ Tablo shared. “I need a track because I want to try writing a hook. He was on tour somewhere at the time, I think.”

SUGA sent him a slam, and within 15 minutes, Tablo landed a hook. He recorded it and sent it back that same day to the BTS member, who did additional work on the track and sent it back. “And then it was done. It happened fast.”

Epik High (에픽하이) – Eternal Sunshine(새벽에) (Prod. by BTS SUGA) (Lyrics Eng/Rom/Han/가사)

Tablo revealed that the song that took the longest to be released was “Song Request,” with artist Lee Sora. SUGA featured on the song as a guest rapper. “He wrote the lyrics, he had a great verse, but the song literally took almost two years to come out because of so many different things going on,” he recalled.

In that time, SUGA‘s rapping developed into a different style, and the way he saw the world also changed, so he felt that his verse needed to be redone. He went to Tablo and asked him for time to do that. “I said, ‘I don’t know if we have time to redo it, but you’re right. It was two years ago. So he said ok and re-recorded the song. The song everyone can hear is the re-recording,” he clarifies.

LeeSoRa(이소라) ft. BTS SUGA – Song request (신청곡) (Lyrics Eng/Rom/Han/가사)

Tablo reflects on working with SUGA

Tablo added “Eternal Sunshine” to Epik High’s recent concert setlist because he and his daughter Haru couldn’t make it to SUGA’s concert in Seoul

Tablo‘s anecdotes about working with SUGA reveal their collaboration’s fluid and dynamic nature. Whether a song is composed quickly or takes an eternity, Tablo reflects, “It just happens like that. It’s not because of who does it; it’s just different circumstances, situations behind the scenes, and inspirations. So each song has its own clock.”

With Tablo‘s candid insights into his collaboration with SUGA and his reflections on life and music, his interview offers a glimpse into the inner workings of one of South Korea’s top hip-hop groups. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: She’s not in this photo, but Tablo brought his daughter Haru to the “Suchwita” set that day. Source: Instagram/@blobyblo.

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BLACKPINK’s Lisa Talks Her “Quarter-Life Crisis” in W Korea Interview

BLACKPINK‘s Lisa, one of the most well-known faces in K-pop, recently sat down with W Korea for a candid interview. The conversation touched on Lisa’s experience at Coachella, her love for fashion, her passion for photography, and her personal growth as she navigates her “quarter-life crisis.”

Lisa’s relationship with fashion, particularly the brand CELINE, was a major theme in the interview. She spoke about her affinity for rock music during photoshoots and how CELINE’s clothing makes her feel like a “cool kid.” Lisa’s first designer bag, a black CELINE belt bag, symbolized her love for fashion even before she debuted. Lisa’s good relationship with CELINE’s Heidi Slimane goes beyond fashion; they share a love for photography and dogs, often exchanging stories about their pets.

Photography is another passion that Lisa has nurtured over the years. She owns more cameras than bags and prefers using high-quality cameras instead of her phone. Lisa’s love for photography aligns with her desire to preserve important moments, such as her unforgettable experience at Coachella. She says her journey at Coachella, from her group’s career-defining first appearance at the festival in 2019 to their stint as headliners in 2023, changed her life. Lisa says Coachella is much more than another event to her. It was a turning point in her life that broadened her horizons.

No to negativity

Lisa‘s growth as an artist and an individual was also something they touched on in the interview. She spoke about how her attitude towards the stage has evolved. She also said she feels more confident these days. She has a new motto that reflects her positive approach to life.

Lisa’s bag of wonders👜W revealed all her items in it😎 by W Korea

“I try not to feel trapped by negative thoughts or emotions. I also try to break negative thoughts, like ‘Why do I feel so bad today?’ or ‘Things would’ve worked out better if I was in a better mood.” Even when things don’t go well, I just tell myself, ‘Well, bad things can happen’ or ‘I’ll do better next time.’ So, my life motto is ‘let it be,’ and I feel more comfortable thinking this way,” she said. “Even when I feel bad, I consciously make myself feel better. I don’t want others to feel uncomfortable because of my bad mood. If it happens, I’d feel so bad for them.”

Lisa on this new season of her life

The interview also delved into Lisa‘s reflections as a 26-year-old navigating this new season of her life. She expressed a desire to live for herself and prioritize her happiness. Her newfound boldness to try new things and be honest with herself marks a significant change in her life. Her biggest ambition, she revealed, is to be happy, staying true to her happiness without harming others.

“Whenever I have something that I want to try, I always do it. I’ve finally become more honest with myself. These days, I think about my happiness more than anyone else’s. I stay true to my happiness as long as it doesn’t harm others. I want to live for myself. I don’t know why. Maybe it’s a puberty thing. I guess I am in my quarter-life crisis,” she laughs.

Lisa‘s candid conversation with W Korea offers a glimpse into the mind of a young artist grappling with creativity, fame, and personal growth. Her quarter-life reflections resonate with many, making this interview a compelling read for fans and admirers alike. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Lisa became a glam rock girl for her latest magazine shoot. Source: W Korea.

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Ahn Bo Hyun’s Statements on Love Go Viral After He Admits Dating BLACKPINK’s Jisoo

The recent announcement of Ahn Bo Hyun dating BLACKPINK’s Jisoo took the internet by storm. Fans and netizens were pleasantly surprised by the news, and it didn’t take long for Ahn Bo Hyun’s past statements on love and relationships to resurface. These comments, made in various interviews and Q&A sessions, shed light on how he makes his relationship with Jisoo work.

In a previous interview, Ahn Bo Hyun spoke about long-distance relationships, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. He believed that love could overcome any barriers and that nothing could stop love. “However, if there is love, if you have a loving heart, I think it’s enough to overcome anything,” he said. This sentiment seems to reflect his current relationship with Jisoo, as both are extremely busy, yet Ahn Bo Hyun coordinated his schedule to match Jisoo’s so they could be together.

BLACKPINK Jisoo and Ahn Bo-hyun confirmed dating | INKIPOP

The actor further emphasized his determination to make time for his significant other when he stated, “Even if you’re busy, you can still love someone. Even soldiers find time to love when they go on vacation.” Ahn Bo Hyun also expressed a desire to meet someone in a natural way.

Furthermore, in a past appearance on the variety show I Live Alone, he detailed his ideal type. Ahn Bo Hyun mentioned he wants to meet someone who respects their elders, has good manners, and is passionate about their work. He also emphasized the importance of self-love, saying, “Someone who loves and values herself stands out the most to me.” These statements align perfectly with Jisoo’s characteristics, such as her love for her parents and her passion for her work with BLACKPINK.

Fans wish Ahn Bo Hyun and Jisoo the best

While Ahn Bo Hyun and Jisoo are busy with their respective careers, it appears that the actor has always had a desire to make time for someone if he cares for them. His past comments on love and relationships not only reflect his current romance with Jisoo but also provide insight into his values and beliefs. The couple’s story melted fans’ hearts, and many are hopeful that they will continue to find time for each other despite their demanding schedules.

In the world of celebrity dating, where every detail is scrutinized, Ahn Bo Hyun’s past statements on love added a layer of depth to the news of his relationship with Jisoo. It’s a reminder that love can move mountains and that dedication, respect, and self-love are key to a successful relationship. Fans resonated with the couple’s story, and they celebrate their relationship as a beautiful example of love in the spotlight. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Ahn Bo Hyun’s last Instagram post featured his photos from the August edition of ARENA magazine. Source: Instagram/@bohyunahn.

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These Are the Planned Albums, Concerts for SM Entertainment Acts for the Rest of 2023

2023 is looking to be an interesting year for SM Entertainment as they unveiled their plans for the coming months. 

On Wednesday, August 2, the agency unveiled its earnings release report for the second quarter of 2023.

The said report includes updates of their consolidated business results for the past quarter, as well as event line-up previews for the coming months. 

According to the report, SM Entertainment logged 35.7 billion won in operating profit for the second quarter of 2023. Their net income also increased by 11.6%, reporting 28.3% billion won. 

Meanwhile, their quarterly revenue improved by 30% to 239.8 billion won. 

The increase in revenue is attributed to the resumption of offline concerts globally and more merchandise sold through pop-up stores related to album releases. 

Relative to the increase, SM Entertainment specifically mentioned aespa’s EP My World, which sold over two million copies. 

Additionally, groups NCT DREAM, TVXQ!, and Red Velvet held the most offline concerts worldwide, with 17, 12 and 11, respectively. 

What to expect for the rest of 2023 in terms of albums 

As for their upcoming music releases, eight SM Entertainment acts are slated to make a comeback in the third quarter. Meanwhile, 11 acts are scheduled the fourth quarter. 

Although the agency clarified that the lineup might change, here’s a rundown of what fans can possibly expect: 

3rd quarter:

For August, U-Know Yunho of TVXQ is confirmed to be releasing his third solo mini-album Reality Show on the 7th.

Meanwhile, Hyo, or Hyoyeon from Girls’ Generation, will be releasing a single.  Also for August, NCT might release an album and aespa with an English single.

Details for said releases have yet to be disclosed, but NCT will be having their first full-group concert NCT NATION: To the World on August 26, while aespa teased a release titled Better Things.”

For September, Super Junior’s Yesung, SHINee’s Key, and EXO’s D.O. will be releasing their solo mini-albums. 

RIIZE, SM Entertainment’s first boy group in seven years, is also expected to make their official debut in September with a single. 

4th quarter:

Although there are no specific months yet, SHINee’s Minho and Super Junior’s Ryeowook will be releasing a single in the fourth quarter.

Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon and SHINee’s Taemin will also be making their solo comebacks with mini-albums. 

Moreover, TVXQ! and Red Velvet might release full albums, while it’s undecided whether NCT127 will release a full-length album or a single. RIIZE is also expected to make a comeback in the fourth quarter with a single. 

As for international releases, WayV will have a full-length album in Chinese, while aespa might release an English single or mini-album. 

NCT Tokyo is also planned to make their debut in the fourth quarter with a Japanese single. Although the preview noted that the artist’s name is still tentative.

NCT Tokyo will reportedly have six members, with four being chosen from the reality survival show NCT Universe: The Lastart. It is also said to be the final sub-unit of NCT. 

What to expect for the rest of 2023 in terms of concerts 

 

Meanwhile, six acts will be having concert shows for the next months.

Taeyeon is currently embarking on the Asia leg of her The ODD Of Love show, which will run until late August. Additionally, aespa is doing the America and Europe stops of their Syk: Hyper Line shows until September. 

From August to September, Chen will have his Polaris tour in Japan. After their Seoul shows, NCT will bring their NCT NATION: To the World concert to Japan in September. 

SHINee will stage their World VI [Perfect Illumination] shows in Japan between September to October, while Yesung will kick off his solo concert tour in Seoul in October.

On top of that, the agency will also bring their SMTOWN LIVE concert to Jakarta in September. TVXQ!, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT Dream, WayV, aespa, and RIIZE will be performing. 

Stay tuned here for more updates about these upcoming releases and concerts. Which of these are you most looking forward to?  

Featured image: SHINee releases album ‘HARD’ in June. Credit: Facebook/SHINee

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Look: Former Hybe Trainee Leo Drops Teaser for Solo Debut

Almost a year after leaving HYBE Labels, Leo is gearing up for his debut as a solo artist. 

Leo previously trained under HYBE Labels, and he was one of the popular members of the debut team Trainee A.

 

Netizens also recognized him for appearing alongside two NewJeans members in the music video of BTS’ Permission to Dance.” 

However, Leo was embroiled in controversy in December 2021 for his scandalous lyrics.

The aspiring idol was criticized for his rap, which he personally wrote, with netizens being dismayed for his supposed misogynistic view and insensitive takes against women. 

The production team in charge of Trainee A who uploaded Leo’s rap performance quickly took down the video and issued an apology. 

Leo also apologized, saying that he’s “extremely embarrassed and ashamed” of his performance. He added that he’s “reflecting on [his] mistakes” and he’ll “strive to do whatever it takes to reflect and learn” from it. 

Yet in August 2022, Leo announced that he’s leaving Trainee A. There, he revealed that his worries just kept getting bigger over the three and a half years that he spent training. 

“I tried to hide from others but the worries kept growing with time, until I couldn’t even control them,” he explained. 

Leo’s new start

Not much was heard from Leo after his departure from HYBE Labels until he surprised his fans with plans for a solo debut. 

131 Label, the independent agency established by Kim Hanbin or B.I, announced that Leo has signed an exclusive contract with them. 

 

Aside from making official social media accounts for their artist, 131 Label also unveiled the activities for Leo’s debut. 

Leo’s debut single will be released on August 17. Meanwhile, the music video will be out on August 29. 

Details about the song title and his debut stage have yet to be disclosed. 

Featured image: Former HYBE trainee Leo is now under 131 Label. Credit: Twitter/131 Label

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Exo’s D.O Reveals Details About His Second Solo Album

Brace yourselves, EXO-Ls: D.O. of K-pop group EXO just confirmed that he’s about to release his second solo album! 

In an interview for the promotion of his movie The Moon, D.O, who goes by his real name Doh Kyungsoo in his acting ventures, opened up about being part of EXO, his acting career, and solo musical journey. 

On being a member of EXO and his solo music releases

The idol-actor looked back on EXO’s decade-old idol career, saying that it’s the “start of [his] life.” 

“I don’t really have friends of my age so I receive comfort and support from my members,” he explained. 

EXO released their seventh full-length album EXIST in July. It served as EXO’s first album as a full-group in two years. It has a total of nine songs, with Cream Soda” as its title track. 

As for his solo music career, D.O. surprised fans by saying that he’s just waiting for his second solo album to be released.

Additionally, he revealed that he has completed the recording, filming for music videos, and jacket photos in May 2022. 

“I wanted to start preparing early so I have completed them before getting involved in other shoots,” he shared. “The album will consist of acoustic-like songs that I love so much.”

However, additional details such as album name, title track, and release date weren’t disclosed. 

But D.O. promised that once the album is released, he’ll conduct an event where he can meet his fans. 

D.O. released his first solo album titled Empathy in July 2021. There, the vocalist wrote two songs: the title track “Rose” and “I’m Fine.”

The eight-track album also included two bonus songs: the English version of “Rose,” and “Si Fueras Mia,” the Spanish version of another B-side track, “It’s Love.

Prior to his solo album, D.O. also released solo songs “That’s Okay” and “Crying Out.”

 

Actor Kyungsoo

The EXO member’s first major acting role was in the 2014 drama It’s Okay, That’s Love where he played Han Gang Woo. 

Since then, his acting career has continued to flourish.

D.O. has appeared in Hello Monster, My Annoying Brother, Along with the Gods: The Two Worlds, Room No. 7, and Swing Kids. 

 

In 2018, he became the main lead for the Korean series 100 Days My Prince, alongside actress Nam Ji Hyun. 

His recent works include, Secret and The Moon. As for his next acting project, D.O. shared that he’s still thinking about it.

Featured image: D.O. in the teaser for EXO’s ‘Cream Soda’ music video. Credit: Facebook/EXO

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Watch: Le Sserafim Releases ‘Eve, Psyche & the Bluebeard’s Wife’ Feat. Demi Lovato

Here’s to a collaboration we didn’t see coming! 

K-pop girl group LE SSERAFILM has released another remix of their hit song “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife” on Friday, August 2 – and this time, it’s with American singer Demi Lovato. 

This remix features a new second verse from Demi. 

It starts with: “I see it written on your face, yeah / I know you want a little taste, yeah / You know I’ll put you in your place/You’re crawling on the floor, begging me for more.”

 

Demi’s verse continues with the lyrics: “A work of art / I’m coming to steal your heart / I’m taking charge / I told you from the start. You can’t believe / You’re falling in love with me / Don’t say I didn’t warn you, baby.”

The remix with Demi is LE SSERAFIM’s latest collaboration for their song “Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife.”

Other artists who teamed up with the K-pop act for a remix includes Rina Sawayama, Upsahi, BIBI, Mirani, and Camo. 

Eve, Psyche & The Bluebeard’s Wife” initially appeared in LE SSERAFIM’s Unforgiven album that was released in May. 

Despite being a B-track, the track easily became a fan-favorite that LE SSERAFIM released a full English version in July. 

Composed of Chaewon, Sakura, Yunjin, Kazuha, and Eunchae, LE SSERAFIM made their debut in July 2022. 

Featured image: LE SSERAFIM performs at the 2023 TMEA Music Festival. Credit: Twitter/LE SSERAFIM

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Ex Loona Member Heejin to Make Solo Debut

The LOONA universe continues to expand as former member Heejin is confirmed to make her solo debut. 

Modhaus confirmed on Thursday, August 3 that Heejin is preparing a solo album.

However, the agency added they’ll have yet to determine the exact release date for Heejin’s album. Additional details such as number of tracks and album title weren’t also disclosed. 

 

Heejin made her debut in October 2016 with the release of her solo song ViViD.” She was the first member that was introduced in the “Monthly Girls” project that marked the start of K-pop girl group LOONA. 

In 2017, Heejin became part of the sub-unit, alongside HyunJin, Haseul, and Vivi. They were LOONA’s first sub-unit, before the group officially debuted as a 12-member act in August 2018. 

LOONA in the recent years

However, between 2021 and 2022, LOONA members, starting with Chuu, filed their injunctions against their agency BlockBerry Creative. 

In Heejin’s case, she filed her injunction in November 2022, citing breach of mutual trust. She filed it alongside members Haseul, Yeojin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, Yves, Go Won, and Olivia Hye. 

Heejin, together with Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry, won their injunctions in January 2023. The four of them signed exclusive contracts with Modhaus in March. 

Meanwhile, Modhaus has since launched the ARTMS project.

Said project will reportedly refer to the activities of the LOONA members under their agency. Haseul, who signed with Modhaus in June, has also been added to the ARTMS project. 

In July, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up.

Additionally, former LOONA members HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu have formed the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble). They’re all under the agency CTDENM. 

Featured image: Heejin poses for her agency photo under Modhaus. Credit/Twitter: ARTMS Project

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‘The Glory’ Star Lee Do Hyun to Enlist in Military on August 14

Sad news, K-drama fans! One of our favorite oppa is temporarily taking a break from acting to fulfill his mandatory military service duties. 

Yuehua Entertainment announced on Thursday, August 3 that actor Lee Do Hyun will be enlisting in the military on August 14. 

The agency emphasized that there’ll be “no separate official event.” Only the actor’s family members and military personnel will be present on the day of his enlistment. 

 

“We ask for fans to refrain from visiting as it is a private event,” Yuehua Entertainment requested. 

Additionally, the label said that Do Hyun will join the ROKAF (Republic of Korea Air Force)’s military band after finishing his basic military training, 

Moreover, they also asked fans to continue their support for the actor.

“Please send your warm support and encouragement to Lee Do Hyun who will return in good health after dutifully carrying out his military duties,” the agency said. 

Before his enlistment, Do Hyun is set to meet his supporters through a fan meeting on August 5. 

Lee Do Hyun, 28, made his acting debut in the 2017 black comedy series Prison Playbook. He also starred in projects Hotel Del Luna, 18 Again, Sweet Home, and The Good Bad Mother. 

Do Hyun is best known for his roles in The Glory and Youth of May.

In May, it was confirmed that he’s in a relationship with The Glory co-star Lim Ji Yeon.

Featured image: Lee Do Hyun shares a behind-the-scenes from filming ‘The Good Bad Mother.’ Credit: Instagram/Lee Do Hyun

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TXT’s Taehyun Covers “SEVEN,” Jungkook Reacts

Kang Taehyun, a member of the popular K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT), covered “SEVEN,” a hit single by BTS’s Jungkook.

The cover, which Taehyun uploaded to the fan community platform Weverse, has not only delighted fans but also received praise from Jungkook himself. 

Taehyun‘s admiration for Jungkook is well-known. As labelmates at BIGHIT MUSIC, the connection between the two artists dates back many years. Taehyun has been a fan of BTS for years, and his support for the group, especially Jungkook, has been evident in various interactions.

On July 31, Taehyun released his cover of “SEVEN,” singing along to an instrumental version of the original. He congratulated Jungkook on topping the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart, calling the song “godly” and a “masterpiece.” 

How will Taehyun react?

Jungkook‘s reaction was swift and appreciative. He thanked both Taehyun and BOYNEXTDOOR‘s Jaehyun, who also covered the song. 

Taehyun‘s fanboy moments with Jungkook have been a source of joy for fans. When TXT debuted in 2019, they visited BTS in their dressing room at a music show. It was then that BTS’ leader RM revealed that Taehyun had over 10 photos of Jungkook in his KakaoTalk profile picture history. RM found that quite amusing. When he shared that story with BTS and TXT, he remarked, “He must be Jungkook’s fan.”

That interaction between Jungkook and one of his idol fanboys was both cute and funny. Now, with Jungkook‘s public acknowledgment of Taehyun‘s cover, BTS and TXT fans are imagining Taehyun‘s excitement. Social media is abuzz with humorous speculations about Taehyun‘s reaction.

SEVEN” is Jungkook‘s official solo debut. It dropped on July 14, featuring American rapper Latto. The song is a taste of Jungkook‘s upcoming solo mini-album, expected to be released by November 2023. His success with “SEVEN” has been remarkable, winning first place on South Korean music show Inkigayo. The song’s popularity continues to grow, and covers by fellow idols like Taehyun add to its acclaim. 

https://twitter.com/mhereonlyforbts/followers_you_follow

Taehyun‘s cover of “SEVEN” and Jungkook‘s warm response highlight the camaraderie and mutual respect between these two talented artists. Fans are now eagerly awaiting more collaborations and interactions between BTS and TXT, two of the most prominent groups in the K-pop industry. In the world of K-pop, where fandoms and connections run deep, this interaction is a reminder of music’s power to bring people together. Or, in this case, make successful fanboys out of idols like Taehyun. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Taehyun truly did his sunbae’s song justice. Source: Twitter/@translatingTXT.

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