Category: LATEST STORIES

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Watch: Infinite Returns With ‘New Emotions’

INFINITE releases the album '13EGIN'. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

K-pop boy group INFINITE is off to a fresh start with the release of their seventh mini-album 13EGIN. 

INFINITE unveiled on Monday, July 31, the six-track EP, which carries the lead single “New Emotions.” 

 

13EGIN — a play between 13 and begin — symbolizes the group’s 13th debut anniversary. 

Additionally, it’s also the group’s first release since INFINITE successfully transferred the trademark rights of their group’s name from their previous label Woollim Entertainment. 

In May, it was confirmed that the rights are now held by INFINITE Company, the agency established by the six members. The group’s leader Kim Sunggyu reportedly heads the agency. 

 

INFINITE last made a full group comeback five years ago, with the release of their third studio album TOP SEED in 2018. The act, however, put out the digital single “Clock” in 2019.

Since then, the members – Sunggyu, Dongwoo, Woohyun, Seungyeol, L, and Sungjong –  have all left Woollim Entertainment, pursued solo careers, and carried out their military services. 

After the release of the album, INFINITE will hold a concert tour called COMEBACK AGAIN. Its international tour stops include Taipei and Macau.

Originally a seven-member act, Hoya left the group in August 2017. INFINITE is best known for their songs “BTD,” “Be Mine,” “Paradise,” “Man In Love,” “The Chaser,” and “Nothing’s Over.”

Featured image: INFINITE releases the album ’13EGIN’. Credit: Twitter/INFINITE

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Look: Seventeen to Release ‘Going’ Magazine Volume 2

SEVENTEEN poses for their 'GOING' Magazine volume 2. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

From producing their songs to making the choreography, K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN is known for being a self-producing act.

And they proved how capable they are once again by releasing a second edition of their self-produced magazine. 

The GOING magazine is an idea initially pitched by member Mingyu in their variety web series GOING SEVENTEEN. He shared that he’d like to create a magazine by conducting their own photoshoot. 

 

During the shoot, each SEVENTEEN member had their respective roles such as fashion stylists, hair stylists, assistants, interviewer, and more.

Meanwhile, Mingyu was in charge of taking the members’ photograph, with Wonwoo taking behind-the-scenes videos. 

As seen in the GOING SEVENTEEN episodes, Mingyu also took the lead in processing the photos and finalizing the layout for the magazine. 

 

Looking back at the experience, the rapper said that it was a time he “could experience the hard work and pain that editors go through firsthand.” 

“It wasn’t easy but I’m proud to have created a photo book with all 13 of us together,” Mingyu shared. 

Wonwoo added: “It was meaningful work that all of SEVENTEEN worked hard to create it.”

Going Magazine 2

After almost two years since the first edition was released in 2021, SEVENTEEN surprised CARATs, their fans, when they announced that they’ll creating a 2023 version. 

Same with the original edition, Mingyu was once again in charge of taking the members’ photos for the magazines. 

 

Instead of the random styling the members have in the first edition, the members now have specific themes for this year’s magazine.

Each SEVENTEEN member are dressed from an episode of  their web show GOING SEVENTEEN. 

The episode for each member are as follows: 

  • Scoups: Kitchen for Two
  • Jeonghan: Treasure Island and the 13 raiders
  • Joshua: Carnival
  • Jun: Mouse Busters
  • Hoshi: Don’t Lie 
  • Wonwoo: Debate Night
  • Woozi: Bad Clue
  • The8: The Four-Wheeled Rider 
  • Mingyu: Ego
  • DK: The8 and 12 Shadows 
  • Seungkwan: Boo Seungkwan’s Past Life Destiny
  • Vernon: Planting Rice and Making Bets
  • Dino: Best Friends

SEVENTEEN also released individual teasers for the members and a concept film. 

Each magazine will have a random photocard set of all 13 members. There will be two photocard sets available. 

SEVENTEEN recently concluded their FOLLOW to Seoul concert on July 21 and 22.

The 13-piece act released their 10th mini-album FML in April, while they’ll also be releasing their first-ever Japanese best album ALWAYS YOURS in August.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN poses for their ‘GOING’ Magazine volume 2. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

‘Peak Time’ Winner Vanner Confirms Augsut Comeback

VANNER poses during the PEAK TIME encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/VANNER

K-pop boy group  VANNER is set to make a comeback, four months after winning the JTBC audition competition show PEAK TIME. 

On Tuesday, August 1, VANNER released a teaser image of a flag with their logo. It also revealed that their first mini-album will be called Veni Vidi Vici, which is a Latin phrase for “I came, I saw, I conquered.” 

Additional details about the album have yet to be released, but Veni Vidi Vici will be out on August 21. 

 

What is PEAK TIME? 

Composed of Taehwan, Gon, Hyeseong, Sunggook, and Yeonggwang, VANNER competed on the show PEAK TIME as Team 11:00.

The group, which made their debut in 2019, was known for working part-time jobs while pursuing their dreams as an idol group. 

 

PEAK TIME is a competition show wherein already-debuted but lesser-known boy groups or members compete for a bigger platform. A total of 24 teams competed. 

The show ran from February to April, with VANNER being hailed as the winner.

It was hosted by Lee Seunggi, and had Super Junior’s Kyuhyun, Jay Park, Tiffany Young as some of its judges. 

As a result of finishing first place, VANNER’s prize was getting an album produced and promoted. 

Additionally, VANNER, together with the other PEAK TIME teams who made it to the top six, BAE173, DKB, M.O.N.T, SEVENTUS, and TEAM 24:00, held a concert tour. 

The top six teams also released a special concert single titled “Your Time.”

More about VANNER

After winning PEAK TIME, VANNER signed a three-year contract with Klap Entertainment.

The agency shared that they will be in charge of the group’s album production, promotions, and management duties. 

Currently, the group is starring in their reality program Picnic Time. It is a spin-off program of PEAK TIME, and will see VANNER in their real-life travel vlogs. 

Featured image: VANNER poses during the PEAK TIME encore concert in Seoul. Credit: Twitter/VANNER

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K-POP ARTISTS LATEST STORIES VARIETY

Epik High’s Tablo Gets Real About Daughter Haru Collecting K-Pop Photocards, Albums

Epik High's Tablo poses for a photo with daughter Haru. Credit: Instagram/Haru

It seems like even veteran singer Tablo of Epik High can’t escape the K-pop collecting culture as he revealed that he almost got broke buying albums and photocards for his daughter Haru! 

Tablo was the guest in the July 28 episode of Jae Friends, a web show hosted by soloist Kim Jaejoong. In there, the two stars talked about how Hallyu wave grew over the years. 

 

The two started talking about how they first met, recalling how they both debuted in 2005. Tablo was with Epik High, while Jaejoong was under TVXQ, before he left the group and its agency SM Entertainment in 2009. 

 

Their conversation then transitioned to how K-pop is right now, wherein Tablo revealed that he knows a lot of recent songs. 

However, the rapper-songwriter couldn’t help but whine over one aspect: how expensive K-pop  is. 

Tablo on Haru’s fangirling 

The Epik High singer then joked that he almost went broke because he has spent a lot on buying K-pop merchandise for his daughter Haru. 

“To be honest, I need to get something from this industry. The amount of money I’m spending on K-pop,” he said. 

Jaejoong then asked Tablo what K-pop groups Haru is a fan of. To which, he replied that she’s following BTS, Stray Kids, and SEVENTEEN. 

“She likes so many idol groups. Seriously, I’m not kidding. I have like a bunch of CDs. The employee selling the albums, that person could recognize who I am,” he shared. 

 

Additionally, Tablo pointed out the number of versions that albums have right now and their cost. He even teasingly blamed Jaejoong and TVXQ for making it a trend. 

“You guys have started that. You guys were the first one. But the stone you guys slightly rolled, it now became a huge rock. There are 20 versions just for one album,” he said. 

 

Meanwhile, Jaejoong was surprised at Tablo’s remarks, saying that fans could listen to the music on streaming platforms instead. “Is it necessary to buy a CD?” he asked. 

Tablo then quipped that it’s because he has to buy the photocards included in the album. “It’s also from you guys. Everything’s all because of you guys. With the amount of albums I’ve bought until now, I almost went bankrupt,” he said.  

The exchange quickly went viral on social media, with many fans agreeing to Tablo’s sentiments. Some also found it cute how supportive he is of Haru’s hobby, and shared that they’re curious about her K-pop merchandise collection. 

 

But in response to a tweet, Tablo jokingly implied that the merchandise might be for himself. “Funny that people think the photocards collection is for Haru,” he wrote. 

 

Haru is the 13- year-old daughter of Tablo with his wife Kang Hye Jung. Tablo previously appeared in the variety show The Return of Superman when Haru was still younger, but they left the show in 2014. 

Featured image: Epik High’s Tablo poses for a photo with daughter Haru. Credit: Instagram/Haru Lee

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Here Are the Members of SM Entertainment’s New Boy Group Riiize

SM Entertainment introduces the members for their new boy group RIIZE. Credits: Instagram/RIIZE

This is not a drill: SM Entertainment has finally introduced the members of their highly-anticipated new boy group RIIZE! 

The agency launched the group’s official Instagram account on Tuesday, August 1, wherein they introduced the official seven members of RIIZE. 

 

RIIZE is composed of Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Won Bin, Seung Han, So Hee, and Anton. 

Based on the member profiles posted, Shotaro and Eunseok are both 22 years old, Sunchan and Won Bin are 21, while Seung Han, So Hee and Anton are all 19.

Shotaro and Sungchan were former NCT members who were removed from the group in May.

SM Entertainment’s CEO Jang Cheol-hyuk explained that the two, together with SMROOKIES Eunseok and Seunghan will be part of a new boy group instead. 

RIIZE will be SM Entertainment’s first boy group in seven years following NCT. The agency’s latest group to debut was the female act aespa. 

What we know about RIIZE so far

According to SM Entertainment, RIIZE is a combination of the words “rise” and “realize.” 

The group is aiming for a September debut, but there’s no final details yet. The agency also said that RIIZE is currently wrapping up the filming of their music video. 

Additionally, SM Entertainment earlier revealed that the group’s musical genre will be “emotional pop.” They also teased that RIIZE will write “a new chapter of music history.” 

Meanwhile, other photos and information for RIIZE and its members will be unveiled on August 4. 

Known as one of the leading K-pop agencies, SM Entertainment is also home to acts such as TVXQ, Super Junior, SNSD, SHINee, EXO, and Red Velvet. 

Currently, the label will also form the last unit of NCT through the talent competition series NCT Universe: LASTART. 

Featured image: SM Entertainment introduces the members for their new boy group RIIZE. Credits: Instagram/RIIZE

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

How to Deal With Adversity, According to BTS’ Jungkook and SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu

In the face of adversity, the path forward may appear daunting. However, K-pop stars Jungkook of BTS and Mingyu of SEVENTEEN recently shared their strategies for dealing with such challenges, offering fans a beacon of hope.

As any ARMY worth their salt knows, Jungkook does live broadcasts on Weverse more often these days. During a recent broadcast, he read a comment from a fan who was finding university life hard. The fan indicated they felt like giving up, so they turned to their bias for advice.

Jungkook was only too happy to help. He said, “Do you want to cry and give up? What should you do… There are a lot of hard things in this world, right? I think there are many difficulties in life. But I don’t want to say ‘everything in life is difficult’ or ‘work hard.’ I just hope you like attending college. I don’t think I can give you a solution, but I hope you, yourself, can decide well for yourself. I hope ARMYs won’t have a hard time. But to not have a hard time, you’d need to put in the effort yourself, right?”

This advice, while simple, is so profound. Jungkook acknowledged the fan’s situation but didn’t offer clichéd advice. Instead, he encouraged them to try and find joy in their journey, emphasizing the importance of personal effort in overcoming adversity. His words serve as a reminder that it’s OK to struggle and that finding personal satisfaction in what we do can make the journey easier.

Mingyu on the power of perseverance

Similarly, when asked about how he handles stressful situations, Mingyu shared that perseverance is key. At least as far as he’s concerned, anyway. During a recent online fansign, a CARAT asked him for advice. He said, “Honestly, I don’t try to tell myself I have to do extremely well, but I also don’t give up. I try to hold out.”

His strategy is to do whatever it takes to weather the storm, which is a testament to his resilience. Mingyu’s words underscore the importance of patience and persistence. He believes there’s nothing wrong with not being perfect or not doing well. Sometimes, the best thing we can do is to keep going even when things are tough. His advice resonates with fans worldwide, as does Jungkook’s, offering a beacon of hope to those who need it.

‘97-liners, best buds for life

Beyond their individual success, Jungkook and Mingyu share a deep, longstanding friendship. Part of the renowned ’97-line squad, they’ve been friends since their debut, their bond strengthening over the years. Their camaraderie was recently on display when Mingyu made a surprise appearance on a late-night live broadcast with Jungkook, a moment that sent fans into a frenzy of excitement.

Their friendship goes beyond casual hangouts. They’ve collaborated on dance challenges, their most recent video going viral and trending for several days. Jungkook even invited Mingyu to learn the choreography for his solo single, “Seven,” and film a dance challenge with him, much to the delight of their fans. In an industry characterized by competition, their friendship is a breath of fresh air. It’s a bond fans admire and look forward to seeing more of in the future. – K-Pop News Writer


Featured Image: Jungkook and Mingyu are as thick as thieves. They hang out when their schedules allow. Source: Twitter/@YayyConnaayyee.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

“The Uncanny Counter 2” Premieres to Higher Ratings than Season 1

The Uncanny Counter 2, the eagerly awaited sequel to the popular South Korean drama, has made a triumphant return. The first episode of the new season premiered to an average nationwide rating of 3.9 percent, surpassing the 2.7 percent rating of the first season’s premiere. This is a promising start. It indicates that the second season is set to captivate audiences just as its predecessor did.

The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch Episode 1 Making Film

The first two episodes, which aired on July 29 and 30, reintroduced viewers to the beloved team of Counters. Everyone from season one—So Mun (Jo Byung Kyu), Ga Mo Tak (Yoo Jun Sang), Do Ha Na (Kim Sejeong), and the rest—came back for another tour of duty. Both episodes also introduced a new villain, played by Kang Ki Young, whose first encounter with Jo Byung Gyu‘s character resulted in a tense cliffhanger, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.

“The Uncanny Counter 2”: The story so far

In the first episode, the Counters dealt with a dangerous evil spirit named Heo Dong Won, who was endangering kids’ lives as a reckless bus driver. This thrilling encounter served as a reminder of the Counters’ mission and their commitment to protecting the innocent from malevolent spirits. Using their unique abilities, the Counters subdued Heo Dong Won, saving the innocent passengers on the bus. This episode showcased the team’s bravery and determination, setting a high bar for the rest of the season.

The Uncanny Counter 2: Counter Punch Episode 1 & 2 Making Film

The second episode continued to build on the suspense and excitement of the premiere. It featured the first meeting between Counter So Mun (Jo Byung Kyu) and the Big Bad (Kang Ki Young). Their encounter was particularly intense, as Kang Ki Young‘s character proved to be cunning and powerful. The episode ended with the two locked in a tense standoff, leaving viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode.

A very promising start

The return of The Uncanny Counter 2 has been met with enthusiasm from fans. The higher ratings for the premiere compared to the first season’s debut reflect the growing popularity of the series. The compelling storyline, combined with the strong performances of the cast, have contributed to the show’s success.

The Uncanny Counter 2 promises to deliver more thrilling encounters with evil spirits, more insight into the characters’ backstories, and more of the camaraderie that made the first season a hit. As the season progresses, viewers can look forward to seeing how the Counters will deal with the new challenges that come their way.

All in all, The Uncanny Counter 2 is off to a very promising start. With its higher premiere ratings and exciting first two episodes, the drama is poised to continue its predecessor’s success. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: So Mun was late to the battle at the bridge, but when he did show up, he made his presence count. Source: Twitter/@daheeverse.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Why the Thought of Lollapalooza 2022 Makes TXT’s Soobin Emotional

In a surprising revelation, Choi Soobin, the leader of the K-pop group TOMORROW X TOGETHER, shared his emotional journey during their historic performance at the 2022 Lollapalooza in Chicago. This performance marked the first time a K-pop group had graced the Lollapalooza stage, making it a significant milestone for the whole industry.

TXT Live at Lollapalooza 2022 (Full Performance)

While the performance was a success, Soobin‘s experience was not as joyous as one might expect. In the Disney+ documentary, TOMORROW X TOGETHER: Our Lost Summer, Soobin confessed to feeling isolated and unsatisfied with his performance. Contrary to his members who described the day as their happiest since their debut, Soobin admitted to crying in his hotel room after the show.

Soobin‘s candid confession has shed light on the pressures and expectations that come with being a performer. He expressed how hard it was for him to let go and enjoy himself on stage, especially when there were no dance moves to guide him. He felt awkward and isolated, unable to meet his own high standards.

Despite these feelings, Soobin remained dedicated to his fans. He expressed his desire to earn the love and support of the fans through his performances. Even when he felt he wasn’t receiving the response he hoped for, Soobin continued to give his all in every performance. His commitment to his fans was evidenced by his promise to always work hard. He saw that as the best way to express his love for them and repay them for their support.

Soobin received support from fans

Soobin’s admission elicited an outpouring of support from TXT’s fans, known as MOA, aka Moments of Alwaysness. Not only did they commend him for his honesty and vulnerability, but they also told him they would stand by his side no matter what. Soobin’s confession deepened his relationship with his fans and highlighted the human side of being a K-pop idol.

In the face of these revelations, TXT is set to return to Lollapalooza in Chicago, this time as the first K-pop group to headline the American music festival on August 5. As fans eagerly await their return, they carry with them a deeper understanding and appreciation of the emotional journey that Soobin goes through behind the scenes. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Soobin normally puts on a brave face for the fans, but sometimes he can’t help but get emotional. Source: Twitter/@csbpics.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Jo Yuri Drops Concept Photos for Mini Album, Comeback Single “Taxi”

K-pop star Jo Yuri—who rose to fame as IZ*ONE’s big-voiced main vocalist—is building anticipation for her second mini album LOVE ALL. She’s been dropping one set of concept photos after another on social media. The latest image, featuring a silhouette atop a yellow car against a yellow backdrop, is just one of the many intriguing visuals she has released.

Check out the first set of concept photos she posted. As you can see, she’s wearing two different dresses. She even donned a pair of angel wings in one of the photos.

Next, she unveiled a set of lovely, dreamy concept photos. These images showed her clad in a furry coat and surrounded by flowers, creating an intimate and warm atmosphere.

In addition to these, Jo Yuri also released concept photos featuring pink and blue themes. In these images, she is seen lounging amidst pink posters and donning a fluffy blue dress, further adding to the diverse visual narrative of LOVE ALL.

Jo Yuri and the Metaverse

The NFT store hellobot worked with her to release these concept photos. They’re part of a larger campaign to engage fans. The fact that Jo Yuri is working with hellobot indicates a shift towards integrating more metaverse content into her future promotions. This is a trend that many artists are embracing, and it’s exciting to see Jo Yuri at the forefront of this movement.

The release of these concept photos is part of a broader strategy to generate excitement for her upcoming album. Jo Yuri has been steadily releasing teasers and concept photos, each one offering a new glimpse into the themes and aesthetics of ‘LOVE ALL’.

Jo Yuri is setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting release. With her creative concept photos and innovative use of metaverse content, she’s not just promoting an album—she’s creating a whole experience. To her credit, it’s working. Fans are eagerly anticipating the release of LOVE ALL, which is set to drop on August 9 at 6:00 PM KST. The anticipation is palpable, and these latest concept photos only add to the excitement.

Her acting work

Aside from her new music, Jo Yuri is also gearing up for Squid Game 2. Released in 2021, the first season, quickly became a global sensation. When word got out that she had been cast in season two, videos showcasing her acting prowess began circulating on social media. 

Last year, Jo Yuri made a cameo appearance as a high school student in Work Later, Drink Now 2. While her time there was brief, she impressed viewers with her delicate emotional expressions. 

In May, Jo Yuri caught attention when she imitated the facial expressions of Park Yeon Jin from The Glory. Her acting ability impressed the netizens who watched her.

Consequently, expectations are soaring regarding her new projects. If you stan her, buckle up. The next few months will be an exciting ride for you. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is her most intriguing teaser so far. Source: Twitter/@JOYURI_offcl.

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K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Looking Back on the LE SSERAFIM Pop-Up: Weverse Magazine’s Retrospective

Weverse Magazine recently provided an insightful look into the standalone pop-up store of the girl group LE SSERAFIM. The store was more than a retail outlet. It was a physical embodiment of the group’s music, message, and brand.

Located in the trendy Seongsu-dong neighborhood of Seoul, the pop-up store was open from April 26 to May 7, 2023. Weverse Magazine highlighted the store’s popularity, noting it attracted over 16,000 visitors during its two-week run. The store had a wide array of official merchandise, giving fans a tangible connection to the group.

Weverse Magazine’s feature included an interview with the group’s creative director, Nu Kim. He explained the purpose of the pop-up store. “With LE SSERAFIM‘s growing influence, we wanted to create a sensory experience that encapsulates the wholesome lifestyle they promote,” he explained.

LE SSERAFIM in 2023 S/S POP UP✨ l 핌둥이들이랑 팝업 스토어 구경할 피어나 모여라~🌸

Weverse Magazine focused on the merch

The magazine’s coverage emphasized the store’s immersive aspect. Upon entering, fans were drawn into the world of LE SSERAFIM‘s first studio album, UNFORGIVEN. The pop-up store’s interiors were a visual representation of the album’s themes, with props from the group’s music videos and a two-story inflatable sculpture, Wing, taking center stage.

Weverse Magazine also focused on the merchandise, carefully curated to reflect LE SSERAFIM‘s identity. “LE SSERAFIM is a fearless, progressive group, and athleisure wear”— a style of athletic clothing typically worn as everyday wear—“was a perfect choice to capture that dynamic image,” Kim said.

The pop-up store’s unique culinary experience was another highlight of Weverse Magazine’s piece. In collaboration with a famous dessert shop, the group created a selection of gateaux. Each one was named by the LE SSERAFIM members themselves. (For the uninitiated, there are five girls in the group: Chaewon, Eunchae, Kazuha, Sakura, and Yunjin.) The desserts were designed to reflect their image, with chic, sophisticated exteriors and bright, colorful insides.

2023 LE SSERAFIM POP UP STORE TOUR • 르세라핌 팝업 못 오는 외국인들을 위한 영상

Redefining the pop-up store concept

Weverse Magazine’s coverage underscored that the pop-up store was more than just a retail space; it was a platform for LE SSERAFIM to connect with their fans on a deeper level. It allowed visitors to experience firsthand the group’s message and attitude of fearlessness.

Looking back, the pop-up store was a testament to LE SSERAFIM‘s influence and the power of the group’s message. Weverse Magazine concluded that the group’s ideals could probably go way beyond music, permeating nearly every aspect of someone’s life. As Kim said, “We hope LE SSERAFIM will be a positive influence on people’s whole lifestyles, even beyond their music and performances.”

Weverse Magazine’s piece on LE SSERAFIM‘s pop-up store was a comprehensive exploration of an innovative and immersive experience that brought the group’s music, message, and brand to life. It served as a reminder of music’s power to influence and inspire, and it set a new standard for what a pop-up store can and should be. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Since the girls are going on tour soon, it’d be cool if they took the pop-up along to different countries! Source: Twitter/@weverseofficial.

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