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MONSTA X’s I.M. Confirms June Solo Comeback

I.M. is getting ready for his next solo comeback. The MONSTA X maknae confirmed he is releasing a new album in June. This will be Im Changkyun’s first album since he signed with a new agency last November.

MONSTA X Rapper I.M. Confirms First Solo Comeback Since Starship Entertainment Departure

Sports Khan reports that I.M. is currently working on his next solo album. The new album will be the MONSTA X rapper’s first solo effort since signing with Sony Music Entertainment Korea last November.

I.M. left Starship Entertainment in August 2022 when he chose not to renew his exclusive contract with the agency. He is the only member of MONSTA X who decided not to stay with the company. However, Im Changkyun will continue to participate in future group activities.

Sony Music Korea recently unveiled I.M’s new official logo. In addition to that, the agency confirmed that the “God Damn” rapper will launch his official website on May 16, 2023.

In related news, I.M’s fellow MONSTA X rapper Joohoney announced his solo debut scheduled for May 2023. The new album will get a physical release, unlike Lee Jooheon’s previous mixtapes. The official release date has not yet been revealed.

MONSTA X will also launch its first unit group this year. It was previously reported that leader Shownu and lead dancer Hyungwon will debut as the group’s first subunit. This will be MONSTA X’s first official subunit since the group debuted in 2015.

The official name for MONSTA X’s first unit group has not been announced. However, Shownu and Hyungwon’s subunit is expected to debut this summer.

The group unit will mark Shownu’s first activity since his military discharge in April. Son Hyunwoo enlisted for mandatory military service in July 2021. He was discharged on April 21, 2023, just two weeks after fellow MONSTA X member Minhyuk began his military service.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

RM Shares Honest Feelings Ahead of BTS’ 10th Anniversary

RM is sharing his feelings with ARMYs as BTS draws closer to a major milestone. The BTS leader posted an honest message addressed to his fans. Interestingly, the message reveals how he feels about the group’s 10th anniversary.

RM Reveals Feelings About BTS’ 10th Anniversary

Kim Namjoon recently posted a lengthy update on Weverse. In his post, the BTS rapper greeted ARMYs before sharing his feelings about the 10th anniversary.

“Hello everyone. It’s been a long time. Hope you all are doing well. I’m getting along all right, just trying my best to live in the present,” RM wrote.

“These days I am discovering more about who I am,” he added. “There are times when there are an endless amount of words I want to say, but I forget them quickly. It’s been ten years since we came out to the world. How are you guys? Are you ok?”

“Sometimes, no, often times, I wonder. How you’re doing, your thoughts, hope and despair, what you believe in now, what you want to believe, what you are chasing, if you feel the seasons well,” RM continued. “As I’ve said several times before, it’s getting harder and harder to open my mouth. I don’t know. I guess I am learning to be more silent as I become an adult.”

“Many sad things become happy, and happy things become sad. I sometimes feel unfamiliar when I watch the videos and words I have said in the past. I can hardly remember anymore,” he added. “It’s strange that these things are becoming dull and sad, and empty. The confidence that I’ve had sometimes disappears. I guess this is just how I am right now.”

“I’m curious and afraid of what it will be like after I return. Time goes by so fast, and everything changes, even me,” RM wrote. “I don’t want to ask for all the love irresponsibly, and I don’t want to cling to you. Rather than wandering around looking for love, if I stay in love and I put in the effort, I want to believe that love will come to me naturally.”

RM Expresses Gratitude For ARMYs’ Ongoing Support for BTS

RM then pointed out that BTS’ 10th anniversary is coming and expressed his feelings of gratitude to his supporters.

“It’s our ten-year anniversary soon. It’s sad that there are things that are getting more and more difficult as the dust piles over time and our hearts. But in a way, maybe that’s just how it is with the weight of our hearts. That means that the pieces we’ve shared are that big,” he wrote. “I am humbled and give thanks every day. I will continue to reminisce about what was a part of me, and as always, I will be fine. Will have been pp (passive participle).”

It is noted that the last line “will have been pp (past participle)” implies he is good, he is doing good, and that he will be doing good.

RM concluded with a sweet message for ARMYs.

“Although you will have a lot of hard times, and it may be very painful, please be well! I will be curious sometimes and often! My words and my letters are the way I give you my love,” he wrote. “This is my current state now. Be careful of the rain and cold! By the time you forget about me again, I will find you again. Stay healthy!”

Kim Namjoon had previously confirmed he intended to enlist for military service at the same time as J-Hope. However, the BTS leader chose to delay his enlistment to finish a project.

“I was actually planning to enlist around the same time as J-Hope but I had to push it back because of this project,” he said.

BTS will celebrate their 10th anniversary since debut on June 12, 2023.

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FIFTY FIFTY’s Agency Addresses ‘Cupid’ Plagiarism Allegations

FIFTY FIFTY’s agency has finally broken its silence. ATTRAKT has addressed the plagiarism allegations on the girl group’s hit song “Cupid”.

FIFTY FIFTY’s Agency ATTRAKT Finally Addresses ‘Cupid’ Plagiarism Allegations

ATTRAKT issued a statement regarding the plagiarism allegations on FIFTY FIFTY’s hit “Cupid”. The agency confirmed that they have consulted with the composer of the song who denied that they plagiarized a different track.

“We checked with the original producer after the recent media mention of plagiarism accusations against FIFTY FIFTY’s ‘Cupid’, and we found the original producer doesn’t even know the Turkish song in question,” the statement read.

“There are similarities in terms of the characteristics of pop music, but we don’t think it’s plagiarism,” it continued.

“Cupid” was composed by Adam von Mentzer, Mac Felländer-Tsai, and Louise Udin. Von Mentzer previously worked on the song “Lovin’ Me” from FIFTY FIFTY’s 2022 EP ‘Higher’.

The plagiarism allegations surfaced online after “Cupid” was released in February 2023. Netizens pointed out that the song sounded like the 2017 song “Sen Askimizdan” by Turkish singer Evrencan Gunduz.

Not surprisingly, Evrencan Gunduz took note of the song. The Turkish artist seemingly accused FIFTY FIFTY of plagiarizing his song in an Instagram post.

https://twitter.com/peedd50/status/1651461392355172354

For now, Evrencan Gunduz has not yet addressed ATTRAKT’s denial of the plagiarism allegations. In the meantime, FIFTY FIFTY appears to be going strong with the viral hit.

“Cupid” continues to dominate the world charts. Back in March 2023, FIFTY FIFTY made history when they became the fastest K-pop group ever to enter Billboard’s Hot 100. “Cupid” charted at No. 100 and it recently made it to the No. 41 spot.

The song is also doing well on the UK Official Charts. “Cupid” reached a new peak at No. 9 of the UK Official Singles Chart. The song is now the first song by a K-pop girl group to crack the top 10.

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Former TVXQ Member Kim Jaejoong Establishes New Agency

Kim Jaejoong is setting up his own agency. The former TVXQ member is establishing a new agency after leaving C-Jes Studios last April.

Kim Jaejoong Sets Up Own Agency After Departing From C-Jes Studios

Kim Jaejoong issued a statement confirming that he has set up a new agency. “I recently established the new agency iNKODE together with CEO Noh Hyun Tae, the former vice president of Cube Entertainment,” he said.

Jaejoong will serve as the head of iNKODE and will work on his own activities as an artist. However, he will also participate in the production of new artists as the CSO (Chief Strategy Officer) of the agency.

Kim Jaejoong intends to nurture rookie idols with iNKODE and he also plans to lead various businesses. This includes the management of K-pop artists and actors with great potential.

Kim’s business partner Noh Hyun Tae previously served as the vice president at Cube Entertainment. He is credited for the success of groups like BEAST and 4Minute. As CEO of iNKODE, Noh will focus on discovering and producing new artists who will lead the next generation of K-pop.

Kim Jaejoong is formerly known as Hero Jae-joong when he debuted with TVXQ in February 2004. In 2009, he and fellow band members Yoochun and Junsu left TVXQ to form their own group JYJ. They also signed with C-Jes Studios. Kim is also an established actor who is known for his work in “Heaven’s Postman”, “Protect the Boss”, and “Triangle”.

His most recent role was in the drama “Bad Memory Eraser” which also starred “Doctor Stranger” actress Jin Se-yeon. He left C-Jes Studios in April 2023 after 14 years of working under the agency.

Kim Jaejoong has not yet confirmed whether he will be releasing a new album soon. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

Congratulations to Kim Jaejoong and Noh Hyun Tae on establishing their new agency iNKODE!

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SHINee 15th Anniversary Fan Meeting New Venue Announced

SHAWOLs have pushed SM Entertainment into submission. The agency has announced that SHINee’s 15th anniversary fan meeting is moving to a new venue. The change comes after fans boycotted the event over questionable seating arrangements.

SM Entertainment Officially Changes SHINee 15th Anniversary Fan Meeting Venue

SM Entertainment shared a new update on SHINee’s fan cafe. The agency confirmed that ‘Everyday is SHINee DAY: Piece of SHINE’ is moving to a new venue. In addition to that, the fan meeting will be extended to a two-day event.

“It will be held on the 27th and 28th at Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium in Songpa, Seoul,” the statement confirmed. Moreover, SHAWOLs who are unable to attend can watch it online as Night 2 of the fan meeting will be streamed through Beyond LIVE.

It was previously announced that SHINee’s 15th-anniversary fan meeting ‘Everyday is SHINee DAY: Piece of SHINE’ will be held at the Ilsan Korea International Exhibition Center [KINTEX]. However, fans were unhappy about the seating arrangements in the venue.

SHAWOLS pointed out that there is a huge portion that blocks the view of the stage. This led to fans boycotting the event and demanding SM Entertainment change the venue.

The agency was then forced to issue a statement confirming they are making the necessary changes. SM Entertainment even went as far as to suggest that the event will be postponed so they could find a better venue.

“We sincerely apologize for causing concern to fans ahead of the 15th anniversary of SHINee and SHINee World,” the agency said.

SM continued, “We are waiting for an answer after confirming the new location. We will inform you as soon as the venue and detailed schedule are decided.”

SHINee’s 15th-anniversary fan meeting ‘Everyday is SHINee DAY: Piece of SHINE’ will be held on May 27th and 28th at Jamsil Indoor Gymnasium. The second night of the fan meet will be streamed through Beyond LIVE.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’ Jin Shares Heartwarming Message For J-Hope While Serving In The Military

Jin wants to reach out to J-Hope while they are both serving in the military. The BTS vocalist shares a heartwarming message for the rapper in the group’s fan community. ARMYs believe Kim Seok-jin is having a hard time contacting Jung Hoseok as they are both in military service.

Jin Shares Touching Message For J-Hope on Weverse

ARMYs are taking to Weverse and posting about how they miss Jin and J-Hope while the BTS members are in military service. One fan left a comment under Jung Hoseok’s most recent post and also mentioned how they miss “World Wide Handsome” as well.

Interestingly, Jin replied to the post. But instead of addressing the ARMY, his comment is actually a message for J-Hope.

“Are you getting <soaked> in the rain? Are you using the px (store)? Have you not gained weight?” Jin asked. He then questioned whether J-Hope has tried to contact him or received his letters.

“Have you not been able to call? Because you have been reading the room. Have you received the letters that I have sent well?” he continued. Jin then went full hyung mode by asking if his dongsaeng is OK.

“Are you hurt anywhere? Have you shaved your friends’ hair? Is the food that is served there good? There’s a long time to go until you get a vacation,” he wrote. Jin then concluded his message with a line that had 2seok aficionados smiling.

“I’m spending my military life looking at you,” he wrote.

It is interesting to learn that Jin has been reaching out to J-Hope although they are assigned to different locations. ARMYs also appreciated that Kim Seokjin continues to be a caring older brother to his fellow BTS member.

Jin enlisted for military service in December 2022 while J-Hope began his enlistment on April 18, 2023. RM is the next BTS member who will enlist although he has not yet announced his enlistment date.

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K-POP STYLE KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK’s Jennie Debuts Limited-Edition Calvin Klein Capsule Collection

Jennie is bringing her personal touch to her Calvins. The BLACKPINK member is collaborating with Calvin Klein on a limited-edition capsule collection.

Jennie Collaborates With Calvin Klein For Limited-Edition Capsule Collection

The American brand announced JENNIE for Calvin Klein, a limited-edition capsule collection personally curated by the BLACKPINK member. The collection, which includes underwear and outwears, features “minimal silhouettes with a relaxed attitude.”

Jennie, who is the brand’s global ambassador, expressed her excitement about the special collection.

“Collaborating with Calvin Klein on this capsule has been an exciting progression in our partnership,” Jennie says in a statement (via Billboard).

“This collection reflects my everyday style and is based on many of the Calvin Klein essentials that have become staples in my wardrobe,” she added.

“I wanted to bring a personal touch to these pieces, which you’ll see reflected in the fit, the color palette and the details. My aspiration for this collection is that everyone will feel as happy and confident in these pieces as I do,” Jennie concluded.

What’s In The JENNIE for Calvin Klein Capsule Collection?

The collection includes bralettes and matching bottoms, bodysuits, tank tops, tees, joggers, dresses, denim shirts, jeans and crewneck sweatshirts. Moreover, the pieces are available in lilac, chalk blue and desert. However, fans can still get them in classic black and white.

Jonathan Bottomley, Calvin Klein’s global chief marketing officer, expressed their excitement about working with Jennie.

“Having worked with Jennie on several campaigns, we know firsthand that she is a cultural powerhouse. Her persona, talent and distinctive style have a major global impact,” Bottomley said.

“Our partnership stems from an authentic place – Jennie is a longtime fan of the brand – and we wanted to deepen that relationship by bringing her personal perspective to our products,” he added. “The result is a mix of Jennie’s coveted style and Calvin Klein’s most iconic essentials, which we know will resonate strongly with consumers around the world.”

JENNIE by Calvin Klein will be available in select stores and online at calvinklein.com starting May 10, 2023.

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XIKERS’ Junghoon Announces Hiatus Due To Knee Injury

Junghoon will go on hiatus to focus on his health. The XIKERS lead vocalist is taking a break from group promotions due to a knee injury that requires surgery.

KQ Entertainment Announces Junghoon’s Hiatus

KQ Entertainment issued a statement regarding Junghoon’s health, confirming that the XIKERS member will go on hiatus. It was revealed that Kim Jung-hoon had suffered from knee pain before visiting a doctor.

“Junghoon recently experienced pain in his knee while carrying out his schedules, and visited a medical specialist for a thorough examination,” the statement read.

“Based on the examination results, Junghoon has been diagnosed with a torn anterior cruciate ligament,” it continues. “As the medical specialist advised that he needed to undergo surgery, the exact date and schedule of Junghoon’s surgery are currently under adjustment.”

The agency also confirmed that Junghoon’s surgery will be followed by necessary rehabilitation. This means the lead vocalist will not join the rest of XIKERS in their upcoming promotions.

“After undergoing surgery, it was advised that Junghoon undergo physical therapy for a limited period, and as a result, he plans on halting all of his promotions temporarily in order to focus on his treatment and physical therapy, as to recover as soon as possible,” the statement read.

KQ Entertainment assured fans that they are looking out for Junghoon’s well-being. They also confirmed that an update will be posted once he recovers.

“We will continue to prioritize Junghoon’s treatment and recovery, and will do our best so that he can resume his schedules upon recovery,” the agency stated.

Junghoon was originally a member of KQ Entertainment’s trainee group KQ Fellaz 2 (ATEEZ was the original KQ Fellaz prior to debut). The group was later renamed XIKERS and they debuted with the EP ‘House of Tricky: Doorbell Ringing’. They are currently promoting the lead singles “Tricky House” and “Rockstar”.

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EXO’s Kai Celebrates After Successfully Forcing SM Entertainment To Organize Free Fan Meeting Ahead of Military Enlistment

Kai is getting his wish to see his fans before he enlists in military service. The EXO main dancer celebrated after successfully convincing SM Entertainment to organize a rush fan meeting. The event will be held before Kim Jong-in’s mandatory military service enlistment next week.

SM Entertainment Announces Special Fan Meeting Ahead of Kai’s Military Enlistment

SM Entertainment shared the announcement regarding the special event.

“We are writing to send out a notice that we have prepared a place on Tuesday, May 9 at 7PM at YES24 Live Hall for Kai and EXO-L,” the announcement read. It also confirmed that the intimate event is free but only available for selected fans. However, those who are unable to attend in person can watch the fan meeting online.

“As it is a small place, the event will be free and only EXO-L ACE III and EXO-L ACE II are able to pre-register,” it read. “For fans that are not able to come to the venue, it will be broadcast live on EXO’s Youtube Channel.”

The special fan meeting is not a surprise for EXO-Ls since Kai had shared his intentions with his fans. The EXO member previously confirmed he will “blackmail” his own company to allow him to hold an emergency fan meeting. Kim Jongin later celebrated on his fan community after successfully forcing SM Entertainment to organize the event.

“I succeeded,” he told his fans. “All I had to do was frown a little.”

Kai had previously expressed his disappointment about having to enlist for military service. He explained that he wasn’t sad about serving his country. Instead, he had been looking forward to showing his fans his plans for EXO’s comeback.

“There’s so much that I had prepared. What a pity. That’s what’s upsetting. There’s nothing that I could do about this,” Kai said.

Kai will begin his enlistment on May 11, 2023. The special fan meeting will be held on May 9, 2023.

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Sandara Park Shows Off BIGBANG G-Dragon’s Limited-Edition Gift

Sandara Park got an awesome gift from her good friend G-Dragon. The 2NE1 member showed off the cool present she received from the BIGBANG leader. However, she also hilariously confirmed a major mistake in the limited-edition merchandise.

Sandara Park Pokes Fun At Major Error in G-Dragon’s Expensive Gift

Back in March, G-Dragon dropped some new merchandise in his ongoing PEACEMINUSONE x Nike partnership. The Nike Kwondo 1 takes inspiration from the BIGBANG leader’s legal name, taekwondo, and the brand’s “Just Do It” slogan.

Since the release, G-Dragon had sent Sandara Park a pair of Nike Kwondo 1 as well as related merchandise. Sandara recently snapped photos of the gifts from her favorite dongsaeng and shared them with her fans on her social media accounts.

Dara was clearly happy with the gifts and proudly showed off the presents. However, she soon realized that there was a huge error in the clothes. The present had been personalized with the 2NE1 member’s name embroidered on the sash. However, it actually reads “Sandari Park”.

Sandara Park immediately poked fun at her friend by sharing the mistake on her Instagram story. “Jiyong-ah … Sa … Sandari Park,” she wrote before adding the laughing emoji.

It’s great to see that the friendship between Dara and G-Dragon is still strong and they can easily laugh about little mistakes. With that in mind, both BLACKJACKs and VIPs were happy to see the cool interaction between the two.

In related news, G-Dragon also teased that he is preparing for a comeback.

“I’ve been wanting to tell you that I’m currently preparing for a project that makes my heart flutter in many ways. Although I can’t go into detail about the current status of the project… I can tell you that several things are underway. I’m working on it step by step,” Kwon Jiyong told Harper’s Bazaar in March.

Sandara Park recently confirmed she is working on new music and will release an album soon.

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