Category: LATEST STORIES

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

(G)I-DLE’s Yuqi Reveals Why She Chose CUBE Over SM Entertainment

Yuqi has opened up about some important decisions she made in her career. The (G)I-DLE member revealed that she turned down SM Entertainment to debut in CUBE Entertainment’s girl group.

Here’s Why Yuqi Decided Against Signing With SM Entertainment

Yuqi was recently a guest on the MBC talk show Radio Star. During the show, the hosts pointed out that Song Yu Qi had always been a huge K-pop fan.

She confirmed, “In middle school, I was in a dance team. We even held a K-Pop festival.”

The (G)I-DLE main rapper then revealed that her initial goal was to become a trainee for SM Entertainment.

“I am a very big fan of Super Junior. So it was always my dream to go to SM Entertainment,” Yuqi said. “I auditioned for SM Entertainment’s global auditions in Beijing four times.”

She added, “After the fourth time, I saw that CUBE Entertainment was also having auditions the week afterwards, so I went ahead and auditioned for CUBE too. But then, I got a call back from both companies.”

It’s not surprising that both agencies wanted Yuqi to sign with them. However, it also meant that the Chinese idol had a huge decision to make.

“It was a huge struggle, choosing which company to go to,” she admitted. “SM was always my dream, after all. But then at that time, 4minute was making it big at CUBE.”

Yuqi continued, “So then I thought, ‘Well, it’s true that I’m cute and pretty and my visuals fit SM, but my voice is so CUBE. It is husky and more fitting for a girl crush concept’.”

So what made Yuqi decide to sign a contract with CUBE Entertainment? It was a simple offer.

“At the time, the director at Cube promised me, ‘Yuqi, if you sign with us, you will be able to debut by next year’. That was why I chose Cube,” she admitted.

It’s a relatable reason and we can’t blame Yuqi for making the decision. After all, most trainees have to wait several years before they could debut. Luckily for Song Yu Qi, she debuted as one of the talented members of (G)I-DLE.

(G)I-DLE is currently promoting their sixth EP I Feel. The group will begin their I AM FREE-TY World Tour in Seoul on June 17, 2023.

Categories
K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

GIRLS GENERATION’s YoonA and 2PM’s Junho Had The Same Reason For Working On “King The Land”

YoonA and Junho are working together for the exact same reason. The GIRLS GENERATION singer and 2PM member have shared why they agreed to work on King The Land. Interestingly, both Im Yoona and Lee Junho were looking for a change.

YoonA and Junho Discuss Working on New Rom-Com King The Land

Im Yoona and Lee Junho attended a press conference for King The Land ahead of the show’s premiere. During the event, YoonA confirmed she chose to work on the new JTBC romantic comedy for a change of pace.

“My last project was heavy and dark, so I wanted to work on a piece with a brighter tone for my next project,” she revealed. “I also felt that when I tried out a character with a bright personality in the past, many fans liked it.”

YoonA had previously worked on the crime drama Big Mouth alongside Lee Jongsuk. It was a very different project from her upcoming rom-com.

Lee Junho agreed with YoonA, admitting he took on King The Land to be set apart from the historical drama he previously starred in.

“I felt the same as YoonA,” Junho said. “Working on The Red Sleeve, I struggled through a lot of emotional stress.”

He explained, “It is based on a historical figure, which meant that I was aware of the story’s tragic developments even as I worked on the project. This time, I chose a project that is allowing me to empty my mind of stray thoughts. It is a production full of love and laughter.”

Although Junho had fun working on the new show, he also confessed that playing a character who doesn’t like smiles was difficult.

“I’m the kind of person who smiles and laughs easily, so acting out a character who doesn’t smile or laugh was actually a big challenge for me. I immediately smile or laugh after even cut,” he said.

Luckily, things were not that hard since Junho was working with YoonA. The Confidential Assignment star revealed that she was excited about working with the 2PM member.

“It’s our first time working on an acting project together,” YoonA said. “I’m so happy that I’m working with Junho, whom I’ve known professionally since we were young.”

“There were moments when we could comfortably look back on those days and talk about our experiences,” she revealed.

In King The Land, Lee Junho plays Gu Won, a chaebol heir who can’t stand fake smiles, and Im Yoona portrays the constantly smiling Cheon Sa Rang. The series will premiere on JTBC on June 17, 2023.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Suga Explains Why Agust D World Tour Did Not Include China

Suga has always been open to his fans whenever they have questions to ask. The BTS rapper addressed a query from an ARMY who begged him to perform in China. Min Yoongi had a simple explanation as to why the country was not included in the SUGA Agust D Tour.

Suga Reveals Why He Did Not Include China In Agust D World Tour

Suga recently interacted with fans during a live broadcast on Weverse. The “Haegeum” rapper took time to speak to ARMYs after his last concert date in Thailand. During the live stream, Suga noticed a comment from a fan asking him to “come tour in China.”

“But we can’t perform in China, how can I go tour in China?” Suga asked in return.

He added, “Are there any Korean artists performing in China? I don’t think there are any.”

“I want to go perform at all the places that ARMYs are mentioning. It makes me feel bad,” Suga continued. He then explained that he saw a few Chinese fans in the audience during some of the SUGA Agust D Tour dates.

“But I can’t perform in China,” he said. “I want to tour in China. It’s been a long time since I’ve been to China so I want to go but there is no way for Korean artists to go and work there.”

In 2018, China strongly objected to the deployment of U.S. Terminal High Altitude Defense missile systems in South Korea. This led to the implementation of the Korean Culture Ban which restricted the dissemination of content originating from Korea.

For now, it is still unclear whether Suga or any Korean act will be able to perform in China. In the meantime, the Asian leg of the SUGA Agust D Tour continues. Min Yoongi will be performing three dates at the Singapore Indoor Stadium from June 16 to 18, 2023.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

MONSTA X’s Shownu Confirmed As Judge On Street Woman Fighter 2

Shownu is ready to be a mentor to rising dancers. The MONSTA X leader has been confirmed to be one of the new judges joining Street Woman Fighter 2. This will be one of Son Hyunwoo’s first major gigs since his military discharge in April.

Street Woman Fighter Confirms MONSTA X’s Shownu As New Judge In 2nd Season

The production team behind the Mnet dance survival show confirmed the news in a statement.

“Shownu is an artist who has a strong fandom both domestically and globally, and he is also well-known for his powerful dancing as MONSTA X’s main dancer,” the producers said.

“Because he also previously served as a judge on Mnet’s CAP-TEEN, which aired back in 2020, we look forward to Shownu using his experience to help the dancers’ global performance on Street Woman Fighter 2 as well,” they added.

Being a judge on Street Woman Fighter 2 is just one of several confirmed projects for Shownu this year. He will debut in the first MONSTA X subunit with fellow member Hyungwon this July. The subunit has already been announced to join the KCON LA 2023 line-up.

KCON LA 2023 will also feature Stray Kids, ITZY, Rain, NMIXX, Kep1er, JO1, ATEEZ, IVE, THE BOYZ, ZEROBASEONE, CRAVITY, xikers, and INI. It was recently announced that SHINee’s Taemin, NCT’s Taeyong, (G)I-DLE, WayV, Lapillus, and EVERGLOW will join the line-up.

KCON LA 2023 will occur at Crypto.com Arena and LA Convention Center from August 18 to 20, 2023. The event will also be streamed online.

The first season of Street Woman Fighter premiered in 2021. It follows various female dance crews as they compete to be the No. 1 team. K-pop legend BoA and NCT‘s Taeyong served as the judges in the first season.

Street Woman Fighter 2 is currently scheduled to premiere on Mnet in August 2023. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Love Letters: ARMY’s Heartfelt Song for BTS on Their 10th Anniversary

In celebration of BTS’ momentous 10th anniversary, fans worldwide have come together to express their unwavering love and support for the septet through “Love Letters,” a beautiful tribute song. This composition reflects the bond between BTS and their fanbase, ARMY, highlighting everything they’ve been through together.

Challenging Years

The past few years have been filled with ups and downs for both BTS and ARMY. From the global pandemic that disrupted plans to each BTS member’s enlistments and impending solo endeavors, it has been a period of constant change. Luckily, the bond BTS has with ARMY allowed both parties to find solace and thrive amidst these challenges.

The creators behind “Love Letters” hope this song will resonate deeply with ARMY, reminding them of the profound impact BTS has had on their lives. It serves as a beacon of hope, assuring the fans that, no matter what happens, BTS and ARMY will always be one. The lyrics capture the essence of this sentiment, encouraging fans to trust the group and believe that the best is truly “yet to come.”

For a Cause

“Love Letters” is special as it contributes to charitable causes. All proceeds generated from the song’s sales and streams will be donated to UNICEF, adding a layer of meaning and purpose to this special tribute. By helping “Love Letters” succeed, fans worldwide can continue BTS‘s tradition of helping others through music.

As this year’s anniversary celebrations continue, the release of “Love Letters” demonstrates the creativity and unity of the BTS fandom. Other groups are also preparing their own musical tributes to BTS. For instance, the Global ARMY Song is set to be released in September, providing fans with even more musical expressions of their love for BTS.

Cheers to a decade of BTS‘s groundbreaking achievements, and here’s to a brighter future filled with infinite possibilities. Stay tuned for updates on the funds raised with “Love Letters” as those behind the song look for more ways to pay it forward, reflecting the benevolence and compassion of BTS and ARMY.

Featured Image: BTS Twitter page

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jennie Apologizes For Not Finishing BLACKPINK’s Melbourne Show

Jennie is breaking her silence after a recent health scare. The BLACKPINK member apologized to fans after she left in the middle of a Melbourne concert.

Jennie Pens Apology To Australian Fans For Leaving BLACKPINK’s Recent Melbourne Concert

During BLACKPINK’s Melbourne concert on June 11, Jennie left the stage in the middle of the group’s “Lovesick Girls” performance. Jisoo, Rosé, and Lisa then finished the show as a trio. YG Entertainment later confirmed that “Jennie was unable to complete the stage due to her deteriorating condition.”

Since then, Jennie has been resting in preparation for BLACKPINK’s future shows. The “Solo” singer also took to her Instagram account to share an apology to Melbourne BLINKs who missed her performance.

“Dear Melbourne Blinks – I’m so sorry I wasn’t able to finish the show on Sunday,” she wrote. Jennie also assured fans of her current state.

“I am doing my best to recover atm. Your understanding and support means the world to me,” she continued. Finally, Jennie expressed her gratitude towards her fans.

“Thank you everyone who came to our Melbourne show, Love you guys!” she concluded.

BLACKPINK will continue with the BORN PINK World Tour in Australia and is scheduled to perform in Sydney this week. The group is set for a two-night show in Sydney on June 16 and 17, 2023.

In related news, YG Entertainment addressed the rumors about Jennie’s possible casting in a Marvel film. A report suggested that the BLACKPINK member has been cast as Seol Hee aka Luna Snow, a K-pop idol who becomes a superhero after gaining ice-based powers.

The rumored project will reportedly introduce the Marvel Cinematic Universe’s first Asian superhero team which is believed to be Agents of Atlas. Although fans were already excited about Jennie joining the MCU, YG Entertainment has confirmed that the casting news is not true.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS Unveils Video for ‘Apobangpo 10’ Project in Celebration of 10th Anniversary

After several months without an OT7 collaboration, BTS reunites for their highly anticipated 10th Anniversary Project. The septet recently unveiled a behind-the-scenes video titled Apobangpo 10 as part of the BTS Festa celebration. In this video, the members discussed their plans to create an ad project for their fans, mirroring the efforts of ARMY during special occasions.

The video captured all seven members comfortably exchanging ideas as if no time had passed. They explored different options for ads, such as building banners, bus stops, buses, electronic billboards, subways, and TV commercials. Their goal was to create a memorable experience for their dedicated fanbase.

Slogans

They also discussed incorporating fan-prepared slogans into the ad. Jimin recalled the slogan “Our beginning and end is you,” previously used by ARMY, while V suggested incorporating lyrics from the group’s then-upcoming song “Take Two.”

V’s suggestion received a warm reception from the majority of the members, leading to an adorable moment where he tried to simplify things for his bandmates by pointing out lyrics he believed would be perfect. But laughter filled the room as Jin pointed out that V’s chosen lyrics sounded more like something for grandparents. 

Meanwhile, BTS‘s leader RM, took a unique approach with his suggestions, aiming to make an impact that would resonate not only with ARMY but also with non-fans. In a lighthearted moment, he called non-ARMYs “Muggles,” drawing inspiration from British author J.K. Rowling’s beloved Harry Potter franchise. In Harry Potter’s world, Muggles are those who lack magic powers and are often unaware of the wizarding world.

Advertisement Options

When the time came for RM to pick an advertisement option, he went with the village bus. He felt it would ensure maximum reach and visibility for the campaign.

The creative process for the anniversary project culminated with the septet brainstorming a catchy campaign name. They settled on Apobangpo 10, based on a Korean phrase meaning “ARMY Forever, Bangtan Forever,” coined by maknae Jungkook during a fan cafe chat with ARMY in 2019. They then posed for photos, capturing the essence of the year ahead. 

After expressing their intention to present ARMY with a significant gift, the members ended the video, leaving their fans eagerly anticipating the surprises to come. ARMY went wild on social media after watching the video, trending the phrase ‘My Seven’ to celebrate BTS’s reunion. Many became emotional upon seeing RM, Jin, SUGA, j-hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook together again.

As BTS continues to mark milestones and captivate global audiences, their 10th-anniversary project is a testament to their unwavering dedication to their fandom. The behind-the-scenes video offers a sneak peek at the creative process behind their endeavors, setting the stage for an unforgettable celebration of a decade of BTS.

Featured Image: Geffen Records Twitter page

Categories
BTS LATEST STORIES

Seoul Turns Purple to Honor BTS’s 10th Anniversary Since Debut

Seoul, South Korea’s capital city, is ablaze with hues of purple as it celebrates the 10th anniversary of global superstars BTS. The city is hosting the 2023 BTS Festa, a two-week festival packed with festivities and tributes to honor the septet’s remarkable achievements over the past decade.

Artwork

The event began with artwork adorning 11 locations throughout the city. This collaboration between BTS’s agency, HYBE Corporation, and the Seoul Metropolitan Government aims to pay tribute to the group’s groundbreaking accomplishments. Each work of art was bathed in purple light, which carries a profound significance as purple is BTS’s official color. It symbolizes the group’s connection to the fans and commitment to staying together “for as long as possible.”

Commemorative stamps

Seoul’s skyline also participated in BTS’s 10th anniversary. Dongdaemun Design Plaza, Gwanghwamun Square, the HYBE building, Lotte World Tower, Namsan Seoul Tower, the Sejong Center for the Performing Arts, Some Sevit (a cultural complex made up of three man-made floating islands in Banpo Han River Park), and Seoul City Hall cast a magical purple glow upon the city. Finally, come nighttime, four Han River bridges—Banpo Bridge, World Cup Bridge, Yanghwa Bridge, and Yeongdong Bridge—also turned purple.

The celebration extended beyond Seoul, as the city’s postal service issued commemorative stamps in honor of this occasion. 

Moreover, LED displays throughout the city flashed congratulatory messages for each member of BTS, amplifying the jubilant atmosphere. Seoul officials also put together a map of BTS-specific locations, including places where they filmed their official music videos.

As locals and tourists alike immerse themselves in the celebratory atmosphere, they bear witness to the undeniable cultural phenomenon that BTS has become and the lasting impact the group has had on the city’s identity. The displays in Seoul are a testament to the power of music and the bond between BTS and their devoted ARMY.

Featured Image: BTS Official Twitter

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

‘Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS’ Book Trailer Released

The highly anticipated BTS book is finally coming next month. The supergroup just unveiled the official cover for Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS. Additionally, BTS dropped the trailer for their upcoming biography.

‘Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS’ Official Cover, Book Trailer Released

The official BTS social media accounts shared the cover for Beyond The Story: 10-Year Record of BTS. The “Original Edition” features a simple yet sleek design that immediately catches the eye. Pre-orders for the book outside of Amazon and Barnes & Noble will start on June 15, 2023, at 11 a.m. KST.

In addition to the official cover, BTS also dropped a trailer for their upcoming book. The trailer highlights some key moments in the group’s journey to success. It also confirms that the highly anticipated biography will consist of seven chapters.

Beyond the Story: 10-Year Record of BTS is written by journalist Kang Myeongseok and the seven members of the group. It will be structured as “an oral history of” the group’s story. Anton Hur is responsible for the English translation, in collaboration with Clare Richards and Slin Jung.

The seven chapters of the book will be collected in 544 pages. It will also include exclusive photographs and never-before-seen images of RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V and Jungkook.

Beyond the Story is already available for pre-order. The book is set to be released on July 9, 2023. That’s the same day that the group announced their fandom name. This effectively means that the biography will be BTS’ birthday gift to ARMY.

BTS is currently celebrating their 10th anniversary since their debut in 2013. The idol group had previously released a new digital single “Take Two” as part of the BTS Festa 2023 celebrations.

“Take Two” is a special gift for BTS’s fans and “conveys their appreciation toward ARMY.” It is the second full-group single that has been released since Jin and J-Hope enlisted for military service.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Sandara Park Confirms Solo Album For July Release

Sandara Park is finally ready for her next solo album. The former 2NE1 member confirmed she is releasing a new album in July. This will be Dara’s first music release since leaving YG Entertainment in 2021.

ABYSS Company Announces Sandara Park Solo Debut Set For July

Abyss Company confirmed the news. “Sandara Park is preparing for a new album [aiming to be released] in July,” the agency said in a statement.

The company also revealed that the schedule has not yet been finalized. “We will inform you later when [the details] are decided,” they stated.

This is welcome news for BLACKJACKs. Sandara Park is the only member of 2NE1 who has not released solo music since leaving YG Entertainment. Needless to say, it’s a solo album that fans have been waiting for since 2021.

Dara debuted with 2NE1 in May 2009. She was the first member of the group to release a solo single “Kiss” (feat. CL) which was used for a Cass Beer promotional campaign. After 2NE1 disbanded in November 2016, Dara signed a solo contract with YG Entertainment. However, she did not release any solo music.

In May 2021, YG Entertainment confirmed that Dara did not renew her contract with the company. Dara had been working as a solo artist appearing in variety shows and musicals. In September 2021, Abyss Company announced that Sandara Park has signed an exclusive contract with the agency.

But what can we expect in Dara’s solo album? The details have not yet been revealed. However, the “Love Love Love” singer had previously teased the concept.

“I will give big spoiler!!! The concept of my album will be ‘Sandara Park’,” Dara tweeted.

When a fan asked if the album will have “tropical vibes”, Dara played coy.

“Hmmm maybe?! But different tropical vibes with winner babies,” she wrote, referring to WINNER’s summery concept for their album ‘Everyday’.

“They got this tropical vibe that I love!!! like island! but i’ll do it Sandara style hehe,” Dara added.

Abyss Company has not yet announced Sandara Park’s solo album release date. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Exit mobile version