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BTS’s Suga Produces Updated Version of Samsung Theme “Over The Horizon”

BTS Suga reimagines Samsung Galaxy's "Over The Horizon" ringtone in latest collab. Photo: Samsung/YouTube

BTS has been the international ambassador for Samsung for over a year and it looks like the partnership is still going strong. Samsung recently unveiled exciting new gear and products including the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G.

In honor of the event, Samsung introduced a stunning new version of its theme “Over The Horizon,” produced by no other than BTS member Suga.

On August 11, Samsung held a special online event Galaxy Unpacked where new products were revealed. The new Galaxy Buds2 were unveiled along with the Galaxy Watch4. However, people were most excited about the Galaxy Z Fold 3 and Galaxy Z Flip3.

The new Galaxy products may have been the point of the event but people were truly thrilled about Samsung’s updated “Over The Horizon” theme. The video proudly confirms that Suga produced the new version of the theme.

https://youtu.be/V7ixp-XwqGI

ARMYs were undoubtedly delighted to know that Suga gave the Samsung theme a makeover. Fans proudly pointed out that anything the rapper produces is a masterpiece—whether it’s a BTS song, a duet with another artist, or a ringtone. Min Yoongi’s work on the iconic theme has certainly elevated it to a new level.

But what inspired Suga when he worked on the Samsung theme? Lil Meow Meow explained in a special video that he had always wanted to work on an instrumental song and was thrilled when Samsung asked him to work on “Over The Horizon.”

“It was an honor to work on a song that’s been part of Galaxy’s 10-year history,” Suga said. “I tried to put my own interpretation while keeping the melody largely the same for it to resonate to a broader audience.”

As a long-time Galaxy user, Suga admitted that he has already heard different versions of ‘Over The Horizon’ over the years. “I was really excited when they asked me to do the project,” the BTS rapper said. He then revealed that he felt it was meant to be and helped get the work done a lot faster.

Suga further explained that he connected with “Over The Horizon” because of what the theme represents. “It’s about going beyond our limits. No one knows what will unfold but our dreams make us go farther than ever.”

August D concluded by sharing how he hopes the theme will help people in the future. “I hope that together with Galaxy you’ll feel your heart open up,” he said in the interview.

Suga is certainly the best choice to work on the updated version of “Over The Horizon.” In addition to being an exceptional producer, he has always supported ARMY and encourages them to pursue their dreams. Working on the Samsung theme proves yet again that Lil Meow Meow is always aiming to inspire people with his works.

“Over The Horizon” was first introduced in Samsung’s Galaxy mobile phones as the default ringtone. Suga’s updated version of the theme is expected to be available in the Galaxy Z Fold3 and Galaxy Z Flip3 5G as well as other Samsung releases.

Feature image: BTS Suga reimagines Samsung Galaxy’s “Over The Horizon” ringtone in latest collab. Photo: Samsung/YouTube
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Six Third Gen Idol-Actors For Your Viewing Pleasure

EXO’s D.O. Photo: D.O. EXO Argentina/Creative Commons/CC PDM 1.0

These days, a lot of members of third generation boy groups (groups that debuted from 2012 to 2016) have either started or about to start their military enlistment. This means that for the idols of this generation who moonlight as actors, their filmographies are currently on hold, and for those who still have a few years before they turn the big 3-0, Korean age, there’s still some time left for them to work on more entries to add to their portfolio. 

In the meantime, here are six third-generation idols who have established quite a filmography; one already finished with his enlistment, two currently serving their time, and three still having a few more years to go before the military beckons:  

ASTRO’s Cha Eun-woo

For someone known as the “Face Genius” (IKR? Who knew a face can be a genius?),” it is inevitable for Cha Eun-woo to be an actor-idol. True, many critics rushed to ask that necessary question, “But can he act,” and for a time, Eun-woo had his birthing pains (read: awkward performances) at the start of his acting career. That he has been conveniently typecasted in pretty boy roles (in dramas entitled True Beauty and My ID is Gangnam Beauty at that) may not really help him establish his acting cred, but it is great to note that since his acting debut in the 2015 web series To Be Continued, netizens and the general public have agreed that there has been a remarkable improvement in the thespian skills of the generally accepted owner of the “most symmetrical face in Korea.”   

Acting debut: a cameo in the movie My Brilliant Life in 2014

Latest release: tvN’s True Beauty, which ended earlier this year

Where to catch him next: Decibel, a military action thriller that will mark his first major role in a film. No release date for the film yet.

EXO’s Doh Kyung-soo

A list of idol-actors will not be complete without EXO’s D.O. The thing about D.O is that, unlike most idols who have ventured into acting, any doubt of his acting skills were immediately quashed in his TV drama debut as Jo In-sung’s high school-aged fan in It’s Okay, That’s Love and his first major movie role in Cart, both released on the same year. From the get-go, actor Doh Kyung-soo has displayed versatility, sensitivity, and depth in his varied performances. He is such a great actor that he actually has some acting awards to show for his solid talents.    

Latest release: 2018’s Swing Kids, released while he was already in military service 

Where to watch him next: The Moon, a sci-fi thriller directed by Kim Young-hwa, who D.O has also worked with in the two Along With the Gods movies.

Got7’s Park Jin-young

By the time Jinyoung debuted as a vocalist in JYP Entertainment’s Got7 in January 2014, he already had two acting credits under his belt. As Ui-bong in Dream High 2 and Ddol-yi in When a Man Falls in Love (where he appeared with his fellow JYP trainee and future groupmate JB), he has a penchant for portraying characters that viewers can’t help but fall for. Since then, he has proven his acting chops with a film and numerous TV roles. 

Where else you can watch him: A Stray Goat, his film debut and He Is Psychometric, When My Love Blooms, The Legend of the Blue Sea, My Love Eun Dong, The Devil Judge, and Yumi’s Cells.

Future releases: Jin-young is set to star in two movies, Yaksha and High Five. 

SF9’s Rowoon (Kim Seok-woo)

In the group SF9, Chani may be the more established actor, having appeared in numerous TV series as a child actor. But this hasn’t stopped bandmate Rowoon from also establishing himself as another member with serious acting chops. Since debuting in MBC Every1’s Click Your Heart, RonVely has consistently delivered with “good boy” performances in series such as School 2017, About Time, and Where Stars Land. Here’s hoping we can see all 190.5 cm of him on the big screen soon. 

Where else you can watch him: Extraordinary You, She Would Never Know, and Yeonmo.

EXO’s Suho (Kim Jun-myeon)

Suho is one of those idols whose acting credentials, unlike D.O, have unfortunately been questioned from the start. From speculations of his getting roles solely because of his looks and his established fanbase to mediocre reviews of his performance, Kim Jun-myeon’s acting trajectory has been uneven. But then, with his two most recent roles as as haughty CEO in Rich Man, Poor Woman and as a pastry chef in the magic-infused How Are You Bread, Suho has found a niche in playing dazzlingly handsome characters. Exo’s leader is currently completing his military enlistment, so let’s see what the future holds for his acting career!

Where else you can watch him: the movies One Way Trip and Middle School Girl and 2017’s The Universe’s Star. 

BtoB’s Yook Sung-jae

BtoB’s maknae brings the quirkiness and excellence his group is renowned for in his acting performances. To hold your own against acting giants Gong Yoo and Lee Dongwook in the legendary Goblin is quite an achievement. He continued his pitch-perfect delivery in Mystic Pop-up Bar, where he played the innocent and simply adorable Han Kang-bae. The thing with Sung-jae is that his performances are so precise for the roles – any other actor with lesser skills can render the characters flat. 

Where else can you watch him: Reply 1994 and Who Are You: School 2015.

We know, you may be looking for some idols excluded from this list (read: V, Joshua, Jun), but then V and Joshua have acted in only one TV show so far and Jun has only been acting in Chinese projects. The good news is V still has a few years before his mandatory enlistment, which means he still has time to add some film and TV credits, while Chinese Jun and American Joshua won’t have to enlist at all. Besides, I’m still waiting for the day Mr. Kim Seok-jin gets bitten by the acting bug. Until then, we have a lot of catching up to do with all those movies and series listed above.

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Smashing stereotypes: Female idols in Korean variety shows  

Male idols do not have a monopoly on variety shows. Female idols are just as goofy and witty on many K-entertainment programs too! 

Ready to see a different side to your favorite female idols? Watch these four variety shows that feature female idols (fixed cast):

1. Amazing Saturday (Do Re Mi Market): Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon 

Each episode features three representative foods from a market in South Korea. The fixed cast and the guests need to play games such as writing down the correct lyrics to various songs to win and be able to enjoy the food. Second generation K-pop group Girls’ Generation’s Taeyeon joined the program as a permanent cast member in 2020. 

Amazing Saturday also has a spin-off show titled Idol Dictation Contest. The show includes the following female idols in the cast: Lovelyz’s Mijoo and former IZ*ONE’s Yena.  

Where to watch: Amazing Saturday channel on YouTube 

2. I Live Alone: Mamamoo’s Hwasa 

I Live Alone features Korean celebrities who live on their own. The program gives audiences a peek into the daily lives of actors, idols, models, and more. The hosts watch footage of themselves, as well as of invited guests. Third gen K-pop group Mamamoo’s Hwasa joined as a fixed host after previously guesting in the show.  

Where to watch: Viu

3. Sixth Sense: Jessi and Lovelyz’s Mijoo

In Sixth Sense, celebrities visit various places or people considered as “hot topics” in South Korea. However, one of these places or people are completely made up by the production staff. The celebrities must then use their wits and deduction skills to figure out which of the choices is fake. 

The show stars veteran comedian and television personality Yoo Jae-suk, actress Oh Nara, actress Jeon Somin, rapper Jessi, also third gen K-pop group Lovelyz’s Mijoo, and actor Lee Sangyeob. 

Where to watch: Viu

4. Busted: Kim Sejeong

Busted was a whodunit variety show where the cast members were brought together to form a detective team. In every episode, the team got involved in a murder mystery that they needed to solve.

The show starred Yoo Jaesuk, actor Ahn Jaewook, singer-comedian Kim Jongmin, actor Lee Kwangsoo, actress Park Minyoung, EXO’s Sehun, former I.O.I and Gugudan’s (both third generation K-pop groups) Kim Sejeong, and actor-singer Lee Seunggi. Busted also featured idols and other celebrities as guests. The program ran for three seasons. 

Where to watch: Netflix

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Red Velvet in Seven Songs

Red Velvet. Photo: 봄이왔서현/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0

Is this the end of the road for Red Velvet? 

The group’s lack of activities for close to two years now has caused huge amounts of anxiety for the Reveluv fandom. Yes, Queendom, the group’s first comeback since December 2019’s The ReVe Festival: Finale will be out on August 16, but many can’t help but wonder if Queendom will be Red Velvet’s version of 4 Walls, f(x)’s last proper release before they disappeared into SM obscurity. Besides, aespa has finally had their breakout hit with Next Level. Really quite reminiscent of f(x)’s 4 Walls coming out months after Red Velvet’s breakout hit, Ice Cream Cake. So, the question is, will RV be shoved aside to make way for aespa? 

Let’s not dwell on such scary thoughts and instead name seven of the strongest Red Velvet title tracks. The list is arranged chronologically, for the purposes of fairness. 

2015: Automatic

Smooth, sensual, and elegant, Automatic is the perfect representative of the group’s “velvet” concept that counters the “red” side reflected in Ice Cream Cake, the title track that shares its title with the EP. Up until Automatic, Be Natural was the group’s leading “velvet” track, but with the inclusion of Yeri in the Ice Cream Cake EP, the group’s sound somehow became even richer, making Automatic a notch more refined than Be Natural. The stylish choreography displayed in the music video further cemented Red Velvet as a group perfect for those with a preference for more sophisticated sounds. It should also be noted that the Automatic music video was the first time the public saw Yeri with the group, as it was released two days before Ice Cream Cake. 

2015: Ice Cream Cake

If Automatic is polished and refined, Ice Cream Cake is unapologetically quirky, bright, and bubbly. The tinny beats and the airy “la-la-la” at the start of the song, coupled with the soft pastel filter used in the music video would eventually be a trademark of the group’s “red” tracks. Considering that the “purist” public was iffy with the inclusion of a new member starting with this EP, it is interesting to note that Ice Cream Cake eventually became the group’s breakout hit. Not bad for a group that, until that song’s release, had been considered SM Entertainment’s first failure. 

2015: Dumb Dumb

If you’re going to search for the term “earworm” in a K-pop dictionary, chances are you’ll find a screencap of the music video of Red Velvet’s Dumb Dumb. After all, the song starts off with the girls singing the line “Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumb” eight times, which means the word “dumb” is drilled to the listener’s head 48 times, all in the song’s first 13 seconds. And the song just doesn’t let up. The lines keep coming one after another, the ladies managing to sneak a couple more “Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumb Dumbs” throughout the rest of song, and a rap portion with Michael Jackson references are all bound to overwhelm. I still remember watching the Dumb Dumb’s music video for the first time and wondering what hit me when I was done. 

2016: Russian Roulette

Here’s Red Velvet in full irony: The song boasts of such lines as “Aiming for your heart now, this place is the color of a dark night” and “I’m your sweet Russian Roulette.” Now, how are you supposed to aim for someone’s heart when you’re somewhere dark as night? And how can Russian roulette be sweet? Then, there’s this video in standard bright and pastel Red Velvet fashion with the girls on full deadpan, executing plots of killing each other a la Wile E. Coyote and the Road Runner. It is Red Velvet in full effect, the effect being it always makes the listener wonder, “What on earth did I just listen to?”

2017: Rookie

By 2017, Red Velvet had cemented a reputation for producing…confusing, if not altogether polarizing music. If you don’t understand the songs and their accompanying videos, chances are you’re going to be on the “not into it” spectrum of the Red Velvet world. Prior to the 2019 track Zimzalabim, Rookie took the cake as the ultimate “love it or hate it, no in-betweens” Red Velvet title track. The song is just so out there, so wild, almost like a cheering chant of a girl for a guy to pursue her. The video is an explosion of color, featuring the girls and some colorful creature that looks like Monsters Inc’s Sully covered in flowers. It’s incomprehensible, which may be the reason Koreans initially dismissed it, though die-hard Reveluvs pushed the song back to the charts.  The Korea Herald puts it perfectly when they opined that the song, like most eccentric Red Velvet “red” releases, is “weird at first, but addictive later”. 

2017: Red Flavor

With queens of summer SISTAR releasing their final song in the first weeks of summer in 2017,  girl groups were in a mad dash, releasing their own sun-inspired anthems with the aim of taking over the vacancy Hyolyn and company will be leaving. Red Velvet threw their hats in the race with Red Flavor, and with great success. The song eventually topped Korea’s Gaon chart and eventually became the group’s signature song. The song was so successful, it was one of the two songs the group performed in North Korea. That there were some smiles seen despite the generally stoic Pyongyang audience is a testament to this song’s power.

2018: Bad Boy

Red Velvet was not playing when they released Bad Boy in 2018. Coming at the heels of Peek-a-Boo, the group reminded everyone how masterful they are not just in their sugary pop “red” summer releases, but they are equally good, if not better, when displaying their “velvet” side. The moment Irene sang, “Who dat who dat who dat boy,” there was no doubt we would be listening to an iconic song in Red Velvet’s discography. 

2019: Psycho

The release of Psycho was perhaps one of the scarier moments of a Reveluv’s life. The group’s three previous releases, RBB out of the RBB EP and Zimzalabim and Umpah Umpah out of the first two parts of The ReVe Festival EPs, tanked, for lack of a better term. The last Red Velvet title track that charted in double digits was 2010’s One of These Nights, which was iconic anyway since it is believed to be a lovely tribute to the victims of the Sewol Ferry incident. By late 2019, the group seriously needed a hit. Prayers were answered with Psycho, as it brought the five to one of their strongest suits – mid-tempo R&B. Dark and sinister and haunting and elegant all at once, Psycho was a highlight to the group’s career before inauspicious events happened.

So, a few days after the welcome success of Psycho, Wendy fell from a platform into a shaft a few centimeters shy of 2 meters while rehearsing for SBS’s Gayo Daejun on CHRISTMAS DAY. Ten months later, Irene figured in a bullying scandal where she allegedly exhibited poor behavior with stylists and staff. The issue has since slowly died, with other makeup and fashion professionals vouching for Irene. Thus, the comeback on August 16. 

In the aftermath of these unfortunate events, Reveluvs can only hope for two things: That the girl’s close to two-year absence has made the public’s hearts grow fonder of Red Velvet, translating to success for the comeback and that Irene, Joy, Wendy, Seulgi, and Yeri will renew their contracts with SM Entertainment for the group’s continuation.

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Beyond the Stage: Male K-pop Idols in Korean Variety Shows  

Super Junior’s Kyuhyun. Photo: Raichanxd/Creative Commons/CC BY-SA 4.0

K-Pop idols are not just insanely talented in singing and dancing; they also have sharp wits and perfect comedic timing, which make them perfect for variety shows! 

In need of a good laugh? Here are five Korean variety shows you can watch that feature male idols as fixed cast members: 

1. Knowing Brothers (Ask Us Anything): Super Junior’s Heechul 

Knowing Brothers is one of the most popular variety shows in South Korea today. This hilarious show is set in a classroom, and the fixed cast—TV show host and former ssireum (Korean wrestling) athlete Kang Hodong, comedians Lee Sugeun and Kim Youngchul, former basketball player Seo Janghoon, and singers Lee Sangmin, Kim Heechul, and Min Kyunghoon—are the students. Every week, “transfer students” guest on the show and are interviewed by the cast. The guests also participate in activities such as games and skits. 

Where to watch: Netflix 

2. New Journey to the West: Super Junior’s Kyuhyun, Block B’s P.O., and Winner’s Mino 

Travel-reality show New Journey to the West is inspired by the Chinese novel Journey to the West, and stars Kang Hodong, Lee Sugeun, singer Eun Jiwon, actor Ahn Jaehyun, and Kyuhyun, Mino, and P.O. For each season, the cast members dress up as different characters, go on a trip, and complete various missions to receive dragon balls that will grant their wishes.

Where to watch: Viu, TvN D ENT channel on YouTube

3. 2 Days and 1 Night: VIXX’s Ravi 

2 Days and 1 Night is one of South Korea’s longest-running travel reality-variety shows. In the program, the cast members go on an overnight trip around the country and play creative games to earn rewards (ex. food and indoor sleeping accommodation) and avoid punishment (ex. going into the water in winter). The show is currently on its fourth season, and stars singer-comedian Kim Jongmin, actor Yoon Junghoon, comedian Moon Seyoon, actor Kim Seonho, rapper Dindin, and VIXX’s Ravi. 

Where to watch: KBS World channel on YouTube 

4. Weekly Idol: Super Junior’s Eunhyuk and Hwang Kwanghee 

K-pop idols get to showcase their unique talents, play games, and share interesting facts about themselves in Weekly Idol. The show is popular for its classic “Random Play Dance” and “2x Speed Dance” segments. The current season is hosted by Super Junior’s Eunhyuk and ZE:A’s Kwanghee—two idols who have also made a name for themselves as excellent TV show MCs. 

Where to watch: Viki, All the K-Pop channel on YouTube

5. Amazing Saturday (Do Re Mi Market): SHINee’s Key and Block B’s P.O. 

Each episode features a market from South Korea and its representative food. In the show, the fixed cast and the guests need to write down the correct lyrics to various songs to win and be able to enjoy the food. 

Amazing Saturday also has a spin-off show titled Idol Dictation Contest. The show includes the following male idols in the cast: Eunhyuk, Ravi, EXO’s Kai, Golden Child’s Lee Jangjun, and Seventeen’s Seungkwan. 

Where to watch: Amazing Saturday channel on YouTube 

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SEVENTEEN in Six Songs

SEVENTEEN. Photo: seventeen/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0

It has been six years since Pledis Entertainment debuted the group SEVENTEEN, but their discography can rival groups that have been in the business longer. It may be because of their unique configuration of vocal, hip-hop, and performance units within the larger group that has provided them with more opportunities to release more songs, or it may be because the group is essentially a self-producing unit – most, if not all of their songs have been composed and produced by the members themselves. Finally, the group has released really solid songs originally in Japanese, which adds to their already-established catalog. Not bad at all for a 6-year old group. 

But whatever the reason is for their substantial musical output, we Carats are surely spoiled for choices, especially when it comes to picking out favorites. But then, it’s also a bit challenging when you are handed out one banger after another, so much so that Carats are often in a dilemma as to whether they should stay loyal to the group’s last release or move on to the latest track. Obviously, it also doesn’t help that the accompanying music videos of the title tracks are also works of art. A personal example: This writer easily dismissed Don’t Wanna Cry as one of those typical songs that heavily rely on the beat drop. Ten, I watched the music video. Those overhead shots of the group dancing in what looked like the middle of a desert silenced me. I was converted in 3 minutes, 26 seconds later (Disclosure: It helped that the first line was sung by my bias breaker Wonwoo.)

So, for their 6th anniversary this year, here are six essential SEVENTEEN title tracks. The temptation to do a list of 17 songs is strong, but I don’t intend to be overwhelmed, so six it is. This is in no particular order, because trimming them down to six has already broken me and I do not wish to further shatter my Carat heart into a million pieces by ranking my chosen six. 

1. Home 

AT the start, the title track of the band‘s sixth mini-album, “You Make My Dawn” may sound like this warm and cozy song about declaring that you are home to the person you’re singing the song to, vice versa. But after listening to the entire song, one couldn’t help but notice an overwhelming helplessness in the verses. With lines (translated) such as “What do I do? Without you, my heart has no home” and “You’ll struggle just as much, so what can we do?”, you can’t help but wonder if the repeated assurances of “Cause I’m your home home home home” in the chorus answers the uncertainties in the verses. The open-endedness of the song is quintessential Woozi, which means it is quintessentially heartbreaking.  

2. Very Nice

“Very Nice” is a high-energy track and therefore is textbook SEVENTEEN. From Vernon’s multilingual countdown at the start to Mr. Boo’s stratospheric high notes, this song is a sure mood improver guaranteed to perk you up when you’re in a sluggish mood. This song unfortunately did not win any number 1’s in music shows. That’s okay, because Wonwoo wasn’t able to join the promotions anyway due to acute gastric problems. A curiosity in the music video: The featured girl moves closer to only one member – Mingyu, on the swing. The other members either get ignored (poor Jeonghan even had to spin her around in a shopping cart) or get stared at as almost all of them burst into confetti, including Mingyu.      

3. Pretty U

Pretty U is one of those songs that maximized Carat’s anticipation for the group’s live stages because the music video did not feature any choreography and only showed the group goofing around in the video’s entirety. Of course, the 13 did not disappoint come music show promotions, as the choreography showed the group in their quirky and entertaining best. From Jun introducing his members sitting on a couch, some book from Wonwoo being passed around, The8 air typing in the aforementioned couch, to Seungkwan delivering a 4-note, 8-second explosion, the live stages were an absolute treat.

As for the mysterious book, it was last seen with Woozi at the second repetition of the chorus, who passed it to its seeming owner, Wonwoo. 

4. Don’t Wanna Cry

As mentioned earlier, I was not a fan of this song when I first heard it. That was until I saw the music video. That Hoshi had to study contemporary dance to choreograph this masterpiece is mind-boggling. Basically, the choreography sold me to the song, which otherwise I had dismissed as just another Chainsmokers sound-alike. We can’t really blame Woozi and the boys for taking this direction that time; those heavily “drop the beat”-reliant songs were all the rage in 2017. But those drone shots of the boys in perfect synchrony on the music video coupled with the balletic movements make this song a thoroughly satisfying experience.

5. Adore U

As SEVENTEEN’s debut song, Adore U is a testament to the huge potential the group had. After all, not just any group can boast of such a strong debut single. Come to think of it, Adore U didn’t (and still doesn’t) sound like a debut song at all. That Wozzi, Vernon, and S.Coups wrote the lyrics to their first song also set a precedent to the group’s future as self-producing idols. Quite memorable as well during this era were Jeonghan’s long hair and a lot of members getting carried or lifted in their live stage choreo – Dino fainting and carried by Joshua; Jeonghan, The8, and Seungkwan carrying Vernon off to the side; and DK getting lifted by the leader while singing “Baby you’re my angel.” As the song that would preempt a lot of things about the group, this also presented maknae Dino as the group’s multiple threat – dancer, vocalist, and rapper. 

6. Thanks

The lead track off of the special album, “Director’s Cut,” is special and memorable indeed. The song is also a first of sorts for SEVENTEEN – Thanks is their first melancholic-sounding track, a departure from their usual bright and upbeat songs. The message of thanks to people who showed them love and helped them grow may sound uplifting at first, but since the recipient of the song’s gratitude appears to be no longer around, both the song and the music video take a darker turn. Referring to the choreography as intense may also be an understatement. 

One thing Carats can take comfort with: All 13 members have re-signed their contracts with Pledis Entertainment a full year before their expiration. This means the group has already officially avoided the 7-year disbandment curse that has afflicted even the most iconic of k-pop groups in the past. Therefore, we are assured of at least a couple more title tracks from SEVENTEEN in the coming years.

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EXO: The Essential Playlist

EXO at the KBS Song Festival red carpet, December 29, 2016. Photo: 티비텐/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

As one of third-generation K-Pop’s top groups, EXO boasts of an impressive discography—from sweet ballads to aggressive dance tracks—that will never be boring. Are you ready to dive into their universe? Here are 10 songs that are well-loved by EXO-Ls that even casual K-Pop fans can truly enjoy.

Top 10 EXO songs

1. Growl (2013)

Growl is EXO’s representative song—and is essential in any EXO playlist. This dance track won many year-end awards, including the Disk Daesang at the 2013 Golden Disk Awards and Song of the Year at the MelOn Music Awards.

2. Miracles in December (2013)

This ballad song is from the group’s second EP of the same name. The Korean version features main vocalists Baekhyun, Chen, and D.O. The track has a beautiful, flawless melody, accompanied by smooth vocals on piano and strings.

3. Overdose (2014)

Overdose is that strong, loud, and fast dance number that cannot be left out of your EXO playlist. This song is perfect for going all out on your last five minutes on the treadmill. Also, this is EXO’s last release as a 12-member group.

4. Call Me Baby (2015)

Exo’s got dance tracks down to a fine art. Call Me Baby, the lead single from the album Exodus, is a fun, charismatic, energetic, and addictive tune that only gets better with every listen.

5. Love Me Right (2015)

Love Me Right is equal parts funky, sweet, and smooth. This gem from 2015 is a well-produced single with catchy lyrics that showcase each of the members’ vocal colors.

6. Monster (2016)

Monster is one of two lead singles off the EX’ACT album. Its heavy, intense sound is accompanied by powerful choreography that is a delight both for your ears and eyes. It was also a big hit both in Korea and internationally and was even named one of the best K-Pop songs of 2016.

7. Ko Ko Bop (2017)

With its chill, reggae-inspired sound, Ko Ko Bop is the group’s signature summer track. It’s the perfect song to listen to on a road trip or a beach outing with friends. Plus, Ko Ko Bop was so popular in 2017, it inspired a viral dance challenge.

8. Tempo (2018)

Tempo is the lead single in the group’s Don’t Mess Up My Tempo (DMUMT) album. It’s a dynamic track that can hype you up even on a gloomy day. And that a capella bridge…*chef’s kiss*

9. Love Shot (2018)

Love Shot will make you attempt to copy Kai’s body rolls. But more than that, it’s a slick dance track with just the right amount of sexiness. This is also EXO’s first music video to hit 400 million views on YouTube.

10. Don’t Fight the Feeling (2021)

The group might be on hiatus at the moment as most members are currently enlisted in the military, but they haven’t forgotten EXO-Ls. This special album—the first to feature Lay since 2018’s DMUMT—is a gift from the boys to all fans. Don’t Fight the Feeling is a cheerful and exciting song that will remind you why EXO is one of the best K-Pop acts around.

EXO Songs – Honorable Mentions

Lucky One (2016) 

Lucky One is the other lead single from the group’s third studio album EX’ACT. It’s a great, energetic pop song that will automatically make you move to the beat.

Artificial Love (2016) 

EXO has tons of B-sides that deserve equal billing on every fan’s playlist, and Artificial Love is one of those tracks. The hard-hitting beats can get you up off the couch and busting out your club moves in no time.

Power (2017) 

Want a shot of confidence to help you through the day? Put on this song for an instant energy boost! Fun fact: EXO performed this upbeat track at the closing ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. It was also featured at the Dubai Fountain Show.

Gravity (2018)

This song is a B-side from Don’t Mess Up My Tempo that would’ve done well in promotions. The sound has a retro electro-pop feel that, coupled with the group’s vocals, you won’t get tired of hearing.

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A Homage to SISTAR, the Eternal Queens of Summer

Sistar. Photo: Jinho Jung/Wikimedia Commons/CC2.0

The sun’s shining oh so brightly, the AC’s on full blast, and people (or at least the ones brave enough to face the virus and its variants head-on) are out in sleeveless shirts and shorts. And if we are to factor in the effects of climate change, we may be in for a few more weeks of summer weather before welcoming the cool crisp fall air. Which also means we may have more time to enjoy the songs of summer. 

K-pop has had an unofficial but strong tradition when it comes to music popularized during summer. This can be traced back as far as the 1980s when popular singers and groups release songs with lyrics that explicitly mention summer and its activities like In Summer by duo Deux, Summer Story by DJ DOC, and the classic Let’s Go on a Trip by legendary Cho Yongpil. This tradition, reminiscent of the UK’s anticipation of the country’s Christmas #1, has continued into K-pop as we know it these days. Soloists, girl groups, boy groups, and bands have celebrated summer through their songs: Hot Summer by f(x), Beach Again by project group SSAK3, and two Red Velvet albums (The Red Summer and Summer Magic) come to mind. 

But for most of us who have been following K-pop since Hallyu, one group has somehow created a niche of itself when it comes to attaching their success to the season: SISTAR. Red Velvet has been, for some years, successfully campaigned to be associated with summer to considerable success, but for some reason, they stopped in 2020. TWICE’s Dance the Night Away and their most recent release Alcohol-Free got them summer recognition, but then they have been spreading themselves too thin by also associating themselves with Christmas through their Christmas releases. This year, Brave Girls has launched a campaign with the release of the overtly titled Summer Queen, which has been notably successful, if only they were not rivaled by another Yoo Jae-suk project group, MSG Wannabe. Besides, BG is still too attached to their viral military hit, Rollin’, so their claim to the Summer Queen throne may require them to be more consistent for a couple more summers. 

So for now, we’re left with reminiscing on SISTAR, a group whose success may be owed to their consistency in releasing during the summer. Out of their 12 releases (that include 2 studio albums, 2 compilation albums, four single albums, and 4 EPs), only two were not released during the summer –  How Dare You, which was released in December 2010 and Alone, which was released in the spring of 2012. But then again, Alone was sandwiched in between two massively successful summer releases – So Cool released in August 2011, and the compilation album Loving U released two months after Alone. It felt like Starship Entertainment caught lightning in a bottle by scheduling almost all SISTAR releases during the summer months and ran away with it, up until the group’s last release, Lonely, which debuted on the last day of May in 2017. 

If you’re pining for some of SISTAR’s summer domination, here are three of Hyolyn, Soyou, Bora, and Dasom’s representative songs to feed your nostalgia.  

Bikini Body SISTAR: Touch My Body

A SISTAR song featuring Soyou’s breathy vocals? Check. A SISTAR song featuring lyrics that border on racy (the title literally suggests a dare) and schmaltzy at the same time? Check. A SISTAR music video with Hyolyn’s perfect tan and flashing her cross tattoo covering her entire stomach? Check. A SISTAR music video featuring comedian cameos (Noh Hongchul and Jun Hyunmoo)? Check. A SISTAR music video shot in a pool and with the four members in a wide assortment of bikinis? Check. Touch My Body is arguably (as it is Shake It for some) the definitive SISTAR song of summer.

Actual Beach SISTAR: I Swear

SISTAR is a group associated with sexiness, but when you take a close listen to their lyrics, you can’t help but realize that their songs are actually quite innocent, if not cheesy. This is especially true with I Swear, a song that reads like a wedding vow. And this is also one of only three videos (the two others being Loving U and Lonely) from the group that was shot outdoors. Finally, contrary to popular knowledge, I Swear was actually shot in Saipan. It was the MV for Loving U that was shot in Hawaii, while their last MV, Lonely, was shot in Macau.

Dark Summer SISTAR: I Like That

Their second to the last title track, I Like That harkens back to one of SISTAR’s greatest hits, Alone in the sense that I Like That doesn’t sound as bright as the group’s other summer tracks, but somehow still feels like a summer song. It does help that the music video opens with Dasom fanning herself in the darkness before entering a room illuminated by Chinese lanterns. The outfits are typical SISTAR with hot pants, cropped tops, and diaphanous fabric wraps abound.

It is bittersweet to reminisce on SISTAR’s hits, especially during this time of the year that they used to dominate until their disbandment in 2017. Hyolyn and Dasom are set to bring some of that SISTAR summer magic with their new song Summer or Summer to be released on August 10, 2021, but for those who need an OT4 comeback are unfortunately out of luck this year. Who knows, we may have one next year! But then, we will always have those ten record-breaking title tracks to enjoy from the B-E-S-T queens of summer.

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SEVENTEEN: Birthday Boy S.Coups in Numbers

SEVENTEEN. Photo: 붕어의 느린걸음/Wikimedia Commons/CC4.0

August 8 marks the 26th birthday of SEVENTEEN‘s leader and oldest member, S.Coups. On the occasion of this momentous day (and by momentous, I mean I am counting down the days until he celebrates the birthday I, along with the rest of Caratland, dread: his 30th birthday, which, unfortunately, may come earlier because his Korean age is more advanced), let’s not dwell on sad thoughts and instead be merry and mark Mr. Camel’s day with some numbers.

Here are some significant digits in our birthday boy’s life:

10: The length of his eyelashes, in millimeters

Obviously, S.Coups doesn’t have humps to store food and water, so we can attribute that nickname Mr. Camel (a nickname he doesn’t particularly appreciate as he has indicated on some episodes of Going Seventeen) to those attention-grabbing lashes. I can still remember him balancing a toothpick on top of those lashes in Weekly Idol years ago, a true testament to how long and strong those lashes are. 

12: The number of SEVENTEEN music videos with S.Coups sporting noticeably colored hair

Since debuting in 2015, SEVENTEEN has released more than 30 official music videos, including three Japanese and some by the sub-units. Of all those videos, there are 12 where leader-nim has noticeably colored hair. This doesn’t count dark brown hair like in Pretty U, which looks natural. A bit few, considering some members (I’m looking at you, Jeonghan) are known for their aversion to dark-colored hair on their MV’s. When S.Coups’ hair isn’t black or dark brown, he usually prefers light blonde and silvery hues, with his most “adventurous” color being metallic light blue in Left & Right (THAT video where he was supposed to be in a car to be launched into outer space). 

Speaking of hair color, it should also be noted that while he donned an ash silver color on top of black tresses in the 아주 Nice video, he reverted to black during the group’s promotions. The other videos that have Mr. Choi in noticeably colored hair are Adore U, Healing, Check-In (that bluish-violet hue that can even turn brown depending on the light), Clap, Oh My!, My My, Ready to Love, and the Japanese releases Happy Ending, 24H, and Anyone.

6: The number of years he spent as a trainee before debuting in SVT

Actually, he was slated to debut in other groups of Pledis before finally debuting in SEVENTEEN. This means he trained with the members of NU’EST, but he was not included in the group’s final line-up in 2012. He was also included in another group TEMPEST, which was supposed to debut in late 2012-early 2013, but the plan fell through. But Carats would agree everything was a  blessing in disguise because SVT ended up being Pledis’ most successful group. 

2: The number of times S.Coups has been absent from SEVENTEEN’s promotions

Throughout the group’s six-year history so far, the leader has had to beg off twice from participating in promotions for various reasons. In 2019, he took a hiatus from the group to deal with his mental health challenges. During the Ode to You tour that supported the group’s third studio album, An Ode, Pledis released a statement that the group, including S.Coups, have decided to allow him to take time off so he could rest and cope with the symptoms of anxiety he was diagnosed with. Considering that mental health is not commonly discussed in the world of k-pop, S.Coups taking a break from activities to address his issues was quite brave and welcome.

Just a few months ago, S.Coups had to be excused from the tail-end of promotions for the group’s latest single, ready to Love, because he sustained a shoulder injury while participating in an event.  It should be noted, though, that S.Coups covered a majority of Wonwoo’s parts during the Very Nice era, as the latter suffered from acute gastritis before the broadcast promotions of the song started.    

57: The number of days in between S.Coup’s and Jeonghan’s birth dates

Jeonghan was born on October 4 in the same year as S.Coups, 1995, which means S.Coups is only 57 days older than the group’s second oldest member. On the other hand, 1,283 days (or 3 years, 6 months, and 3 days; or 42 months and 3 days), separate the leader and maknae Dino. 

Many happy returns, beloved leader Choi Seungcheol, aka S.Coups! May you have more happy birthdays to come. Since you were instrumental in making all 13 of you renew your contracts with Pledis (a year before the contract is set to expire at that), we Carats are already assured of more years with SEVENTEEN, so we can’t ask for anything more than your happiness and stable health. 

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Celebrating 15 Years of Super Junior: The Essential Playlist

Super Junior. Photo: KNTV/Wikimedia Commons/CC3.0

Super Junior has been on the K-Pop scene for 15 years. Since their debut, they’ve tried everything from energetic dance tracks to melodic ballads to Latin-infused sounds. To celebrate 15 years of Super Junior, here are 15 of their songs that deserve a permanent spot on your playlist.

15 must-listen songs from Super Junior

1. Twins (2005) 

The boys came out swinging on November 6, 2005 with Twins (Knockout). The song’s got everything a K-pop record should have—powerful vocals, signature rap, robust choreography, and a fiery (literally) music video. Fun fact: fans know Twins as Super Junior’s debut single, but not many know that this is a cover of British boy band Triple 8’s song Knockout.

2. U (2006)

Go on a nostalgic early 2000s sound trip with SuJu’s classic pop offering. The track is their first as a permanent group, after maknae Kyuhyun joined in 2006. It is also the song that gave the boys their first music show win.

3. Sorry Sorry (2009)

No doubt about it, this is THE Super Junior song. Even non-K-Pop fans have at least heard of this 2009 mega hit. The repetitive, chant-like chorus gets stuck in your head without being annoying, while the choreography continues to inspire numerous dance covers from rookie idols to regular people.

4. It’s You (2009)

Super Junior isn’t only known for their energetic dance tunes—they also have beautiful mellow numbers as well. One of those songs is the soft dance track It’s You. It’s a lovely song, one where all 13 members got the chance to showcase their vocals.

5. Bonamana (2010)

This track is the lead single off the group’s fourth studio album, and follows the funky, upbeat, electronic pop style of Sorry Sorry. It was the group’s fastest song to win first place in a music chart show (KBS Music Bank), and went on to stay on the top spot for three consecutive weeks.

6. Mr. Simple (2011)

Mr. Simple follows the trademark “SJ Funky” sound—dynamic, in-your-face, and unique. It still feels fresh even 10 years after its release. This is also the first Super Junior music video to reach 200 million views on YouTube.

7. This is Love (2014)

Super Junior’s shift to a more mature sound is captured in this pop-jazz ditty. This is Love feels like a serenade to E.L.F.—which is why the song needs to be included in every fan’s SuJu playlist.

8. Evanesce (2014)

You can truly feel the song’s message of love lost in this emotional track. It also highlights the guys’ vocals. Plus, Eunhyuk’s dance segment in the music video is equal parts beautiful and heartbreaking.

9. Devil (2015) 

Devil is part of Super Junior’s special 10th anniversary album. It is the laid-back sibling of Sorry Sorry, with a similar catchy and cheeky hook, but layered with smooth vocals.

10. One More Chance (2017)

Written and composed by Donghae, One More Chance is a sentimental pop-rock ballad from Super Junior’s eighth studio album Play. It’s a great song to listen to on cool rainy evenings.

11. Black Suit (2017)

After a two-year hiatus, SuJu returned with Black Suit. It’s a great comeback song—it’s a dynamic, playful pop dance track that showcases the group’s crazy, fun-loving personality.

12. One More Time (2018) 

Super Junior x Latin pop? Yes, please! The group collaborated with Mexican pop-rock band Reik for an appealing, classic Latin-infused sound. The release also marked eternal maknae Ryeowook’s return from military service.

13. I Think I (2019)

I Think I is one of the pre-release singles from the group’s ninth studio album, Time_Slip. This song—the whole album—is special as this is the first since all the members completed their mandatory military service. The track is a fusion of Latin pop and R&B, built for easy listening on a chill afternoon.

14. Burn the Floor (2021)

Burn the Floor is a pre-release single that could have worked well as a title track. The song fits the concept of their most recent album Renaissance, with orchestral sounds for its opening, and verses that bring out the guys’ vocals. Plus, the music video is stunning—a great reminder that the men of Super Junior are amazing performers.

15. House Party (2021)
Yes, people still need to mask up and practice physical distancing! With House Party’s catchy and relevant lyrics, the K-Pop legends remind all of us to continue following health protocols. This song even earned the approval of the World Health Organization’s Director General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus.

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