Good news, NCTzens! K-pop boy group NCT 127 is set to star in their first documentary series on Disney+!
Titled NCT 127: The Lost Boys,the four-part documentary-series will delve into the pre-debut lives of the nine group members, their journey to stardom, and their thoughts on the group’s current success.
Through interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and heartwarming anecdotes, members Taeil, Johnny, Taeyeong, Yuta, Doyoung, Jaehyun, Jungwoo, Mark, and Haechan, will open up about their personal challenges, sacrifices, triumphs, and connection as a group.
Each episode will reportedly feature two to three different members of the group, with two episodes airing from August 30 to September 6.
NCT 127: The Lost Boys is directed by Jayil Park and created by Cho Youngchul and Yim Pilsung. It is the latest documentary offering of Disney+ that revolves around K-pop idols. Other acts who have documentary shows with Disney+ include BTS members Suga and j-hope, and groups Super Junior and Tomorrow X Together.
Launched in 2016, NCT 127 is one of the sub-units of the SM Entertainment act NCT. The group is best known for their songs “Cherry Bomb,” “Kick It,” “Sticker,” “2 Baddies.”
The sub-unit also recently celebrated their seventh anniversary since debut.
The world of K-pop has recently been rocked by a controversy surrounding the popular group FIFTY FIFTY and their agency, ATTRAKT. Known for the catchy song “Cupid,” FIFTY FIFTY is embroiled in a legal battle with their agency, leading to concern and speculation among fans and netizens alike.
So what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT?
ATTRAKT’s Response
In response to the cancellation of the girl group’s BarbieOST MV filming and their appearance at KCON LA, ATTRAKT released a statement about the issue. The agency confirmed the cancellation of these scheduled activities, citing internal problems and the ongoing legal dispute as the primary reasons. However, the agency has yet to provide specific details about the nature of these issues, leaving the public in the dark about the exact circumstances leading to these cancellations.
The controversy about what happened to FIFTY FITY has led to widespread speculation about the specific opportunities the K-pop group might have missed out on. Fans have expressed disappointment over the K-pop girl group’s canceled KCON LA appearance, a significant event in the K-pop calendar that would have allowed the group to reach a wider audience. The cancellation of the Barbie OST MV filming was also a major blow because it would’ve boosted the group’s international profile and potentially opened up new opportunities for collaborations and endorsements.
What’s happening to #FIFTYFIFTY first their appearance in KCON was cancelled and now Barbie soundtrack and event?!? Omg I hope they are okay
Legal Battle Between FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT Begins
The legal battle between FIFTY FIFTY and ATTRAKT officially started on July 5, with the first hearing held at Central Seoul’s 50th District Court. The group has asked to terminate its exclusive contract with ATTRAKT on the grounds that the agency violated it. The members’ lawyer has cited many grievances, including cloudy accounting practices and disregard for the members’ health. Such allegations could have serious implications for ATTRAKT and potentially lead to significant changes in how K-pop agencies operate.
ATTRAKT CEO Jeong Hong Joon’s mismanagement of the K-Pop group HOTSHOT also resurfaced. He founded K.O Sound, the company under which that ill-fated group debuted. Fans of HOTSHOT expressed concern about Jeong’s style, citing a lack of promotion and poor communication. This led to increased scrutiny and skepticism regarding Jeong’s handling of FIFTY FIFTY‘s situation.
A report by Dispatch has brought several of the group’s claims into question. The report provided text messages showing the group’s producer, Ahn Sung Il, pressuring the CEO to tell them to work on a music video for the upcoming Barbie movie, despite health concerns. This added another layer of complexity to the controversy and raised questions about power dynamics in the K-pop industry and the pressures idols face.
In a new development, The Givers, the producers of FIFTY FIFTY‘s hit single “Cupid,” released a statement addressing allegations made by ATTRAKT. The Givers claimed that ATTRAKT had given them $9,000 to purchase neighboring rights to “Cupid,” not the song’s copyrights. They also stated that the copyrights to “Cupid” are rightfully owed to them and Ahn Sung Il, and that ATTRAKT is spreading misinformation and confusing the public. The Givers ended their statement with a “final warning” to ATTRAKT and reporters, stating they would reveal their innocence in court.
I feel so bad for fifty fifty their barbie song was cancelled due to the whole situation, along with a bunch of o… — RIGHT OMG and I can’t believe people are attcking the girls for it???? https://t.co/gNPJ1rfjlw
The controversy has undoubtedly had a significant impact on FIFTY FIFTY. The group’s image may have been tarnished, potentially affecting their future prospects. The cancellation of their KCON LA appearance and the “Barbie” OST MV filming are significant setbacks, and there is speculation that the group may have missed out on other opportunities as a result of the controversy.
Despite what happened to FIFTY FIFTY and the controversy, fans of FIFTY FIFTY remain hopeful. They believe the group’s talent and charisma will help them overcome these challenges. The agency’s assurance that they are working to resolve the issues has also provided relief to the fans. However, the situation remains uncertain, and it is unclear what the future holds for FIFTY FIFTY.
It’s still too soon to determine the controversy’s long-term impact. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on what happened to FIFTYFIFTY and everyone else involved in it. People are waiting to see what their next steps will be. The controversy highlighted the need for greater transparency and fairness in K-pop, and it is hoped that this situation will lead to positive changes.
Featured Image: FIFTY FIFTY releases official photos for their first Single Album, “The Beginning: Cupid”. Source: Twitter/FiftyFifty Official Twitter account
Recently, PLEDIS Entertainment announced that SEVENTEEN member Seungkwan (real name Boo Seungkwan) would halt activities for the time being due to poor physical condition. This news comes after Seungkwan had previously taken a break in April following the passing of his best friend and fellow K-pop idol, ASTRO’s Moonbin.
Following that first hiatus, Seungkwan returned with a cheerful demeanor and participated in group activities. Unfortunately, he now needs another break due to his ongoing health issues. He visited a doctor, who recommended he take some time off to rest and recuperate.
As a result, Seungkwan won’t hit the Gocheok Sky Dome stage with the rest of SEVENTEEN on July 21 and 22 for their SEVENTEEN TOUR ‘FOLLOW’ TO SEOUL concert. He won’t participate in a fan signing event in China or walk the red carpet at the upcoming Tencent Music Entertainment Awards, either.
Fans flooded social media platforms with an outpouring of support for SEVENTEEN’s main vocalist. Meanwhile, his agency promised to support him as he recuperates.
Yo, Seungkwan went on leave. I am worried sick of my baby cause he tends to bottle up his worries. Take all the time you need, love. https://t.co/fGMNHaiTGb
SEVENTEEN has been making waves in the K-pop scene since its debut in 2015. With their immense popularity and loyal fans, they have achieved worldwide success. But an idol’s life isn’t all about glitz and glamour. Idols are human beings who face emotional and physical challenges like everyone else.
BTS member V, aka Kim Taehyung, traveled from Seoul to Paris last month to participate in CELINE’s spring 2024 menswear show. As the newest brand ambassador for the renowned designer brand, the 95-liner earned praise when he arrived at Incheon Airport sporting a head-to-toe CELINE outfit.
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V departure at ICN going to paris for celine homme summer 24 show
However, amidst growing protests in various cities across France, CELINE’s creative director, Hedi Slimane, officially announced the show’s cancellation. (It was initially set for July 2.) The protests erupted following the tragic shooting of Nahel, a 17-year-old of Algerian-Moroccan heritage, during a police stop in the Paris suburb of Nanterre.
V‘s presence in Paris amid the protests made French ARMYs anxious. However, he reassured fans by sharing his experiences on his Instagram Stories. Despite the cancellation, V was able to spend some time with his fellow CELINE global ambassador, actor Park Bo Gum. The two appeared together in a video greeting for VMAN, an offshoot of V Magazine, delighting fans with their camaraderie.
Other photos and videos of V from his time in Paris soon surfaced online, giving fans a glimpse into his trip. Fans showered love and support for V on social media, expressing their admiration for his journey to Paris and his interactions with Park Bo Gum.
V is so freaking hot 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
So is Bogum in fairness
Omg
I hope they are all safe with that riot in Paris
Take care Taetae and friends and
Tae Crew https://t.co/2QAaWAiozh
📑| Kim Taehyung with Park Bogum via @vmagazine Instagram Reel!
“SEOUL-MATES! Acting powerhouse @/bogummy and musical wonder #V of @BTS_twt say hello to V Magazine + VMAN on a sunny summer afternoon in Paris—wearing their Sunday best: @celineofficial Homme by @/hedislimane!” pic.twitter.com/mVLORfrXIa
BTS’s V may not have been able to showcase his presence at the CELINE fashion show. Still, his trip to Paris provided memorable moments and glimpses into his stylish adventures, solidifying his status as a global fashion influencer.
The dating rumors surrounding YoonA and Junho from the drama King the Land have caused quite a stir. However, there might be a reason behind the sudden emergence of these rumors.
On July 3, fans and the media were taken aback by rumors that the two stars had been dating since before they started filming the drama. A media outlet claimed they only agreed to star in the show because of their alleged relationship.
This news raised suspicions among netizens who believed the dating rumor was a calculated move to generate attention and buzz. Some pointed out that more established outlets, such as Dispatch and Sport Seoul didn’t cover the news. Instead, a relatively new outlet called The Proof reported on it. Interestingly, this outlet was established in March 2023, and its biggest investor is a competitor to JTBC, the network that airs King the Land.
Moreover, the timing of the dating rumors also raised eyebrows. They surfaced after an episode of the drama aired, leading some to speculate that Proof News reported on the dating rumors in a bid to affect its ratings. This theory gained traction because the drama is steadily gaining attention. In fact, after the sixth episode, King the Land achieved its first double-digit rating. Furthermore, the main leads topped the Good Data Corporation‘s Most Buzzworthy Drama and Actor List.
Netizens couldn’t help but express their disappointment in certain media outlets for writing about the rumors without solid proof. They believed the Korean media should’ve been more responsible, as King the Land is currently airing.
YoonA and Junho, idols from two prominent second-generation K-pop groups, Girls’ Generation and 2PM, respectively, gradually transitioned from acquaintances to friends after collaborating on some things. They hosted award shows and performed the Camila Cabello–Shawn Mendes duet “Señorita” at the 2021 MBC Music Festival, solidifying their bond.
While the dating rumors initially stunned the public, the circumstances surrounding their emergence hint at a possible motive behind the news. Whether it was an attempt to affect the show’s ratings or gain attention, the dating rumors created a buzz around YoonA and Junho, even if their agencies firmly denied the romantic relationship.
BTS’Jungkook and Jimin are making significant strides with their solo work.
Jungkook recently made ARMY’s dreams come true by uploading two fan-favorite songs, “Still With You” and “My You,” to major streaming platforms. Both tracks were released as part of BTS‘ annual FESTA, a special event commemorating the group’s anniversary and connecting with their devoted fanbase. Initially available exclusively on SoundCloud and YouTube, international fans can now listen to them on Apple Music, Spotify, and other top streamers.
The impact of Jungkook‘s music has been extraordinary, as evidenced by the success of “Still With You,” which he composed himself. It topped the iTunes charts in an impressive 83 territories across the globe. Another one of Jungkook’s compositions, “My You,” went to No. 1 in 15 countries, including Finland, Japan, Paraguay, and Qatar. These achievements stand as a testament to Jungkook‘s talent and the unwavering support of ARMY.
Jungkook is preparing for the release of his highly anticipated debut solo single, “Seven,” scheduled to drop on July 14. Although “Seven” marks Jungkook‘s official solo debut, he previously ventured outside the BTS and K-pop spheres. Notable collaborations include “Dreamers,” with Qatari artist Fahad Al-Kubaisi (this song made the 2022 FIFA World Cup soundtrack), and “Stay Alive” from the 7Fates: CHAKHO soundtrack. Moreover, Jungkook’s collaboration with Charlie Puth on the hit “Left and Right” in the summer of 2022 demonstrated his ability to sing well in English.
Meanwhile, Jimin has also achieved remarkable success in his solo endeavors. “Angel Pt.1,” which he did with rappers Kodak Black and NLE Choppa, and singers JVKE and Muni Long, recently secured a place on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart at No. 96. This collaboration, featured on the original soundtrack for the action film Fast X, marks another milestone for Jimin.
Jimin‘s solo achievements have been nothing short of exceptional. In January, his collaboration with Taeyang, “Vibe,” debuted at No. 76 on the Billboard Hot 100. In March, he soared to No. 30 on the same chart with “Set Me Free Pt. 2.” Furthermore, his solo debut album FACE, released on March 24, made history as Jimin became the first Korean soloist to top the Billboard Hot 100 chart with its title track “Like Crazy.” This track remained on the Hot 100 for five weeks, showcasing Jimin‘s undeniable impact. Jimin has spent nine weeks on the Hot 100 chart so far, solidifying his presence as a global artist.
The recognition and praise for Jimin‘s solo album FACE extend beyond chart success. Esteemed US media outlet Rolling Stone dubbed it one of the best albums of 2023 so far. The outlet also praised Jimin’s willingness to experiment with his image and described FACE as a compelling showcase of his strengths. “Like Crazy” also secured a spot on Rolling Stone’s “Best Songs of 2023 So Far” list. The magazine described the track as dreamlike, slick, and soulful.
Although some BTS members currently serve in the military, the group maintains a presence on the charts and elsewhere through the others’ solo work. As a group, the septet recently marked their monumental 10th anniversary by releasing the single “Take Two” on June 9.
Jennie from the K-pop group BLACKPINK has sparked mixed reactions with her portrayal of Dyanne in the season finale of HBO’s The Idol. This has led netizens to debate the storyline and treatment of her character.
Jennie’s character Dyanne got limited screen time throughout the show’s five-episode first season. But in the finale, Dyanne’s fate turns for the worse as the record label withdraws their offer for her to sing “World Class Sinner” instead of the female lead, Jocelyn (played by Lily-Rose Depp).
Although the record label’s director promises to help her become a star in the future, viewers see the disheartened Dyanne stepping into an elevator as its doors slide closed, a scene symbolizing the backup dancer’s sad fate. She missed her chance to change her luck in the entertainment industry.
On a positive note, some found solace in the ending, interpreting it as a realistic portrayal of the harshness of the entertainment industry. They acknowledged that unforeseen circumstances often derail dreams and result in unfulfilled promises, regardless of one’s talent. They even drew parallels between what happened to Dyanne and Jennie’s prior experience as a singer.
You know what’s the craziest part about the idol?
I know Jennie wasn’t acting like, she prolly goes thru sneaky music industry shit the way the k pop industry moves
— 🦭i need club penguin back (@vainillaenjoyer) July 4, 2023
Although critics bashed the show, Jennie’s performance received defense and praise from BLINKs. They commended her for showcasing her acting skills and daring to do something outside the K-pop industry.
If Jennie was excited for the idol it’s because she was the best part of the show and wanted to show us her acting. I loved watching this side of her every week 🤧🩷🩷
One thing #THEIDOL did was showcase Jennie from BLACKPINK cuz she probably had the least screen time but when I say she ate every scene I mean it! Her subtle acting is top tier.
— Frankie Blanche Devereux (@OldSoulLyn) July 3, 2023
But some simply couldn’t understand why a K-pop star like Jennie signed on to do a minor role in a show that became a lightning rod for controversy. They think Jennie was cast only because HBO higher-ups hoped to rope her loyal fans into watching the show.
Just finished The Idol… don’t waste ur time watching it. It’s just really gross and exploitative and there’s genuinely no point to it. Like there was barely a plot, zero character development. And I’m gonna be honest, they fully used Jennie for her fame to get more views.
South Korean-Chinese boy band EXO is set to make a grand comeback with their new single “Cream Soda.” The SM Entertainment group recently unveiled individual teaser images featuring Baekhyun, Chanyeol, Chen, D.O., Kai, Sehun, Suho, and Xiumin.
“Cream Soda” is the title track of EXO’s upcoming full-length album EXIST, scheduled to drop on July 10 at 6:00 PM KST. The track is an addictive slice of dance-pop, with cheerful brass, drum, and keyboard sounds. As if that wasn’t enough, the members’ vocals present a cool, sexy vibe that will send shivers up and down EXO-L’s spines. Meanwhile, EXIST will have nine songs, each showcasing various charms.
Before the release of “Cream Soda,” EXO had already dropped music videos for pre-release tracks “Let Me In” and “Hear Me Out.” They received a warm welcome from fans worldwide. The latter was wildly successful. It began topping iTunes charts upon its June 30, 6:00 PM KST release.
By July 1 KST, “Hear Me Out” had gone to No. 1 on iTunes in at least 37 different regions, including Argentina, Armenia, Belarus, Botswana, Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Greece, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Laos, Malaysia, Nicaragua, Nigeria, Oman, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Thailand, the United Arab Emirates, Turkey, Venezuela, and Vietnam. It also reached No. 1 on KuGou Music’s and QQ Music’s digital sales charts in China.
These releases mark EXO‘s first group comeback in more than two years. The anticipation for their seventh full-length album EXIST is high, and EXO-Ls are eagerly waiting for it to drop.
I’m so excited for EXO’s new album ‘EXIST’! I absolutely love the teaser image of SEHUN – he looks amazing. Can’t wait to hear what ‘Hear Me Out’ has in store! #SEHUN#EXO_EXIST#we
Did Lee Jung-jae convince the producers of Squid Game Season 2 to cast a good friend? TheStar Wars: Acolyte actor’s agency has addressed rumors that Lee helped former BIGBANG member Choi Seung-hyun aka T.O.P land a role in the Netflix series.
Earlier this week, Netflix announced eight more actors who will be joining Squid Game Season 2. The new cast members included Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an.
Squid Game rounds out the cast for Season 2:
Please welcome Park Gyu-young, Jo Yu-ri, Kang Ae-sim, Lee David, Lee Jin-uk, Choi Seung-hyun, Roh Jae-won, and Won Ji-an to the game! pic.twitter.com/wV7WErYKpM
Although fans were delighted to learn that T.O.P is returning to acting, others thought that the casting was dubious and were convinced that lead star Lee Jung-jae convinced the producers to cast Choi Seung-hyun in Squid Game Season 2.
“Some of the reports that claim actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2 are not true,” the statement read. “The casting of a project is the authority of the director and the production company.”
“In particular, actor Lee Jung Jae understands more than anyone that due to the great interest in Squid Game 2, many actors work hard to make an appearance, and [the cast members] are decided through audition,” it continued.
“Accordingly, we would like to reiterate that it is not true that actor Lee Jung Jae was involved in the casting of Squid Game 2,” the statement concluded.
It was previously confirmed that ZE:A member Yim Siwan, Park Sung-hoon (The Glory), Kang Ha-neul (The Pirates: The Last Royal Treasure), and Yang Dong-geun (Connect) will also join Squid Game Season 2. Their roles in the series are still undisclosed.
Squid Game Season 2 will bring back Lee Jung-jae, Lee Byung-hun, Wi Ha-joon, and Gong Yoo. The second season has not yet been given an official release date but is already expected to premiere on Netflix in 2024
Yeri is opening up about her most challenging acting project so far. The RED VELVET member spoke about playing a mean character in the new series BITCH X RICH. In addition to that, Kim Ye-rim discussed the differences between being an idol and an actress.
Yeri Reveals Why She Accepted The Role of A Mean Character in BITCH X RICH
Cosmopolitan Korea recently shared the stunning photos from Yeri’s photoshoot for the magazine’s July issue. In the accompanying interview, the RED VELVET maknae discussed her new show BITCH X RICH where she plays the cruel queen bee Baek Jenna.
When the interviewer commented on Yeri’s cruel acting in the murder mystery, the Dear Diary singer admitted that she wanted to take on a challenge.
“I tried this [drama] as I wanted to expand the spectrum of my acting,” Yeri said. “As it’s a character I haven’t done before, people were very surprised. I did my lines thinking most importantly about my tone, speed, and rhythm.”
“Rather than a kid who just plays around, I had to look like a princess,” she added with a laugh. “An authoritative character who speaks slowly and seeks power over people. Since she’s the complete opposite of me, I worried about how to portray that image.”
Yeri also discussed the differences between being onstage with RED VELVET and acting.
“As RED VELVET, I’ve promoted for a long time, have many hit songs, and am recognized wherever I go,” she said. “But with acting, I’m a complete rookie. But I really like that. Because I can learn a whole lot.”
“Also, since it’s a job where you work really closely with the director, assistant director, filming director, and lighting director, I like that you can work in a friendlier way,“ Yeri added.
“I really like working in that way. Even people I meet for the first time feel like family after filming and being together for two to three months,” she continued.
RED VELVET recently completed their R to V world tour and Yeri shared how she and the members felt about meeting REVELUVs from different countries.
“As this was our first world tour in awhile, it was a tour where you could feel everyone trying hard to enjoy themselves,” she said.
“It was fun that the fans’ vibes were different in each city, but the one thing in common was that I could hear them singing along to Korean lyrics in every performance,” Yeri continued. “I got goosebumps. I felt really thankful and it was so meaningful.”
Yeri’s full interview will be featured in Cosmopolitan Korea’s July 2023 issue.
![[2021 MBC 가요대제전] 임윤아 X 이준호 - Señorita (YOONA X JUNHO - Señorita), MBC 211231 방송](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3wdKVGglp8c/hqdefault.jpg)
