Category: LATEST STORIES

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

PURPLE KISS Announces 18-City World Tour ‘BXX’

PURPLE KISS, the rising powerhouse of K-pop, is embarking on an electrifying journey beyond borders with their highly-anticipated 2024 tour titled “BXX.” With an infectious blend of talent, charm, and a burgeoning fanbase, the group’s announcement of their 18-city world tour has sent ripples of excitement through the global music scene.

PURPLE KISS Confirms 18-City World Tour

Scheduled to commence in June, the tour will mark a significant milestone in PURPLE KISS’s career as they venture into international territories, captivating audiences with their captivating performances and magnetic stage presence. The United States serves as the thrilling starting point for their odyssey, where they will ignite stages across cities including Oceanside, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and more. Each stop promises to be a vibrant spectacle, showcasing the group’s unparalleled energy and artistry to fervent fans and newcomers alike.

Following their American leg, PURPLE KISS will traverse northward to Canada, enchanting audiences in cities such as Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto. From the west coast to the east, their tour trajectory reflects a commitment to connecting with diverse audiences across the vast expanse of North America. With each performance, they aim to leave an indelible mark on the hearts of fans, forging unforgettable memories and deepening their international footprint.

As the journey unfolds, PURPLE KISS will culminate their tour with a triumphant return to Asia, where they will grace the stages of Japan with their unparalleled artistry. With concerts slated in Osaka and Kanagawa, the group will reunite with adoring fans in the region, delivering performances that resonate with the same fervor and passion that have propelled them to stardom.

Beyond the glitz and glamour of the stage, PURPLE KISS’s international tour represents a celebration of music’s unifying power. It serves as a testament to the group’s unwavering dedication to their craft and their steadfast commitment to connecting with fans on a global scale. As they embark on this exhilarating journey, PURPLE KISS invites fans from every corner of the world to join them in an unforgettable musical experience that transcends borders and cultures.

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STRAY KIDS Han Drops New Song ‘1,2,3,4,5’ Featuring NMIXX Bae

Stray Kids’ Han continues to delight fans with his musical prowess, gifting them yet another gem with his latest release “1, 2, 3, 4, 5” featuring NMIXX Bae.

Han of Stray Kids Releases NMIXX Bae Collaboration Track

Unveiled on April 27 as part of the SKZ-RECORD series, “1,2,3,4,5” is part of an ongoing project that offers a platform for Han and his fellow members to showcase original compositions and covers outside of Stray Kids’ official discography.

In “1, 2, 3, 4, 5,” Han takes on the role of lyricist, pouring his heart and soul into the poignant verses, while collaborating with Vendors’ Helixx for composition. The result is a captivating melody brimming with emotive depth, accentuated by Han’s soulful vocals and masterfully crafted lyrics. Adding to the allure of the song is a special feature by NMIXX Bae, whose ethereal voice harmonizes seamlessly with Han’s, enhancing the emotional resonance of the track.

This latest release serves as yet another testament to Han’s remarkable talent and versatility as a musician. Moreover, it marks a significant milestone in his career as it has been confirmed that he is now a full member of the Korea Music Copyright Association (KOMCA). This achievement is particularly noteworthy considering Han’s young age, having attained full membership at the impressive age of 22. Furthermore, his prolific output is reflected in his extensive catalog of 135 registered songs, solidifying his status as one of the most credited idols from the 4th generation of K-pop artists.

Han’s journey as a musician is characterized not only by his innate talent but also by his relentless dedication to his craft. Through his music, he continues to captivate audiences, resonating with fans on a deeply personal level. As Han’s star continues to ascend within the industry, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter of his musical odyssey, eager to be swept away once again by his boundless creativity and undeniable charisma.

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LE SSERAFIM Takes Strong Legal Action Against False And Malicious Posts

SOURCE MUSIC has taken a decisive stance against the propagation of malicious posts and false allegations targeting LE SSERAFIM, as declared in an official statement released on April 26. The agency asserts its commitment to safeguarding the integrity and reputation of its artists by initiating strong legal action against those responsible for spreading harmful content.

LE SSERAFIM To Take Strong Legal Action Against Malicious Posts

On April 26, SOURCE MUSIC issued a statement announcing that they are taking strong legal action against malicious posts about LE SSERAFIM.

“The false allegations suggesting that LE SSERAFIM has caused harm to other artists and the presentation of groundless information as established facts to influence public opinion constitute clear instances of spreading false information. Posts containing slander and insults, defamation of the artist’s character, and instances of sexual harassment are all subject to legal action,” it read.

The catalyst for this firm response stems from the controversy surrounding LE SSERAFIM’s performance at Coachella 2024, which sparked intense debate within the K-Pop community regarding the standards of live performances in the industry. Amid heightened scrutiny following their appearance at the prestigious music festival, a viral video circulating online showcased the group’s vocals without backing tracks, further amplifying criticism and scrutiny of their performance.

SOURCE MUSIC’s proactive approach in defending LE SSERAFIM is not unprecedented. Just last month, the agency issued an official statement addressing a barrage of malicious posts targeting the group’s members.

By announcing their intent to pursue legal action, SOURCE MUSIC sends a resounding message that malicious behavior and online harassment will not be tolerated. As fans await updates on the outcome of the legal proceedings, it is imperative for all individuals to uphold principles of respect and empathy in their online interactions. Participation in or propagation of harmful rumors and gossip not only undermines the integrity of artists but also fosters a toxic online environment detrimental to the entire community.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS RM Drops Solo Album Scheduler Despite Military Enlistment

It looks like RM is determined to serve his country and the world this year. BIGHIT MUSIC has announced that the BTS leader will be releasing a solo album despite military enlistment. Now, Kim Namjoon has dropped an official schedule for the upcoming release.

BTS’ RM Announces Solo Album Release in May Despite Military Enlistment

BTS’s RM has set the K-Pop world abuzz with the thrilling announcement of his second solo album, “Right Place, Wrong Person,” slated for release on May 24 at 1 p.m. KST. With BIGHIT MUSIC officially unveiling the exciting news on April 26, fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating RM’s latest musical offering.

As anticipation mounts, RM has treated fans to a glimpse of what’s to come by releasing the promotion schedule for his forthcoming album. The meticulously crafted roadmap offers fans a tantalizing preview of the exciting events leading up to the album’s highly anticipated release.

‘Right Place, Wrong Person’ Scheduler Unveiled

The promotion schedule serves as a roadmap, guiding fans through a series of carefully curated teasers and announcements designed to build anticipation and excitement for “Right Place, Wrong Person.” From concept photo releases to tracklist reveals and MV teasers, each milestone in the promotion schedule offers fans a deeper insight into RM’s creative vision and musical direction for his solo project.

RM’s solo endeavors have consistently captivated audiences with his introspective lyricism, innovative production, and thought-provoking themes. With “Right Place, Wrong Person,” fans can expect nothing less than a musical journey that transcends boundaries and resonates on a deeply personal level.

Beyond the music itself, RM’s solo comeback represents a momentous occasion for ARMYs, who have eagerly supported and celebrated his artistic pursuits alongside BTS’s collective endeavors. As the promotion schedule unfolds and excitement reaches fever pitch, the countdown to RM’s solo album release is officially underway, promising a musical experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on fans around the globe.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ENHYPEN’s Jay Cherishes a Birthday Gift He Got From Jungwon in 2022

In 2021, ENHYPEN’s Jay and Jungwon began a tradition that brought the two of them closer together. Jay gave Jungwon a jacket as a gift, and in return, Jungwon gave Jay an air fryer for his birthday that year.

In his 2024 B-DAY Paper Interview, Jay shared his affection for the unique present. He wrote, “The air fryer that Jungwonie gave me as a gift is the most memorable. Actually, I haven’t had the chance to use it properly yet, but it was memorable because it was my first time to get such a unique gift. Air fryers aren’t usually given as birthday gifts. I need to try cooking with that air fryer right away. Jungwon, thank you!”

@sunwonfilms

#jungwon and jay’s air fryer journey [ #fyp #enhypen #jaywon ]

♬ Some – BOL4

Jay must really be special to Jungwon

Jungwon’s thoughtful approach to gifting didn’t stop there. Over the years, he has tried very hard to come up with creative and personal gifts for his friend. He even asked ENGENEs for suggestions in 2022. That same year, his mother expressed interest in helping him choose a gift for Jay. (It’s possible she helped her son decide on the air fryer.) Jungwon has considered giving Jay a wide variety of things, from perfume to homemade cake to guitar supplies.

Such efforts are notable within ENHYPEN, as member Ni-Ki revealed in a recent live broadcast that the boys generally don’t exchange gifts. He explained, “We celebrate, but that’s how we are since debut.” This makes Jungwon’s persistent gift-giving particularly meaningful. But that’s not all he does for Jay. This year, he made sure to be the first to wish his hyung a happy birthday.

Jay must really be special to Jungwon, otherwise why would he go to such lengths to make the former happy?

@enhypen

꽁꽁 얼어붙은 한강위로 🐈 🐈‍⬛ 가 귀엽습니다. #JUNGWON #JAY #ENHYPEN

♬ 한강 고양이 리믹스 – 행복한피자빵 HappyPizzaBread

ENHYPEN is on tour right now

In other news, Jay and his fellow ENHYPEN members Heeseung and Ni-Ki will make a special appearance at T-Mobile Park in Seattle on April 29. They will throw the first pitch at a Seattle Mariners game against the Atlanta Braves, coinciding with the U.S. leg of their ‘FATE PLUS’ IN U.S. world tour. This show will mark the American-born idol’s first performance in his birthplace of Seattle, Washington. 

The tour, promoting their 2023 mini-album ORANGE BLOOD, includes stops across several U.S. cities, culminating in a performance in New York at the UBS Arena on May 3. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungwon’s penchant for giving Jay gifts says a lot about their bond. Source: X/@jaywoncore_.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s RM Announces Second Solo LP ‘Right Place, Wrong Person’

He and the rest of his bandmates may be serving in the South Korean military right now, but BTS’s RM made sure that his fans wouldn’t forget about him. How could they, when he and his label BigHit Music just announced that his second solo album Right Place, Wrong Person will drop on May 24?

According to BigHit Music, the album is an embodiment of who RM is as a solo artist. Like the other albums and singles he released on his own, it will be distinct from the material he released as part of the septet. The label encouraged fans to watch out for and support this new batch of material from the 29-year-old rapper.

“Your anticipation and support for RM and his second solo album Right Place, Wrong Person would be much appreciated,” said BigHit Music in a statement.

The album is described as falling within the alternative genre, featuring a rich sound coupled with frank and honest lyrics. RM has been heavily involved in the creative process, contributing to the lyrics for every track. The themes of the album touch on universal emotions, particularly the feelings of being an outsider or not fitting in. That will surely make it a hit among those who have felt the same way at one point or another.

RM vs. NewJeans?

The timing of this announcement coincides with some controversy in the K-pop industry, notably an ongoing feud between ADOR’s CEO Min Hee Jin and parent company HYBE, the music conglomerate that BigHit Music is also part of. Previously, HYBE stated that the issues between the company and Min Hee Jin wouldn’t affect NewJeans’ comeback in any way.

“NewJeans will continue activities as planned, with the new music video released on the 27th and their double singles to be released in May and June. We will do our best so that the comeback activities aren’t hindered and released on time,” the agency wrote.

However, RM’s album is now slated for release on the same day that NewJeans is set to return to the music scene with their own new material. Hours after BigHit Music’s announcement, a promotion schedule for Right Place, Wrong Person popped up on the label’s X (formerly Twitter) account.

Excitement and concern

In 2015, RM released his debut solo mixtape titled RM, and in 2018, he followed that with Mono, his second mixtape. Mono reached No. 26 on the Billboard 200. In 2022, he released his first studio album Indigo, which saw contributions from renowned artists like Anderson .Paak and Erykah Badu. Indigo achieved a peak position of No. 3 on the Billboard 200. Over the course of his career, RM has worked with several notable artists, including Fall Out Boy, Gaeko, Krizz Kaliko, Lil Nas X, MFBTY, Primary, Wale, Warren G, and Younha.

RM enlisted in the South Korean military in December 2023. After completing basic training, he became a saxophone player in the military band. He’s set to be discharged sometime in 2025.

As the K-pop industry gears up for Right Place, Wrong Person, there’s excitement for RM’s new music and concern about the timing of its release. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Check out the interesting art BigHit Music posted on SNS when they made the announcement earlier today. Source: X/@haruharu_w_bts.

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KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BOYNEXTDOOR’s ‘HOW?’ Album Dominates Domestic and Global Charts

BOYNEXTDOOR has shattered records with their latest release, HOW?, which soared to the top of domestic and international music charts. According to Hanteo Chart, the album sold a whopping 397,090 copies on the day it dropped. This marks a substantial 30% increase from the first-day sales of their last mini-album, WHY.., which sold 302,203 copies. 

HOW?’s first-week sales totaled 649,361 copies. The increase in first-week sales from WHY.. to HOW? is approximately 69.95%. Impressive, huh?

Earth, Wind & Fire – BOYNEXTDOOR [Music Bank] | KBS WORLD TV 240426

The international reception has been equally enthusiastic, with HOW? hitting number one on the iTunes Top Albums chart in five countries and regions, including Hungary, Russia, Singapore, Thailand, and the Philippines. HOW? serves as the final installment of BOYNEXTDOOR’s “First Love Story Trilogy,” exploring relatable tales of first love experiences, from the excitement of initial encounters to the bittersweet farewells.

The album’s title track, “Earth, Wind & Fire,” debuted at No. 89 on Melon’s real-time Top 100 chart on April 15 and climbed to No. 63 by midnight. This marked the first time BOYNEXTDOOR cracked Melon’s Top 100. It’s a significant achievement that highlights the growing public interest in the group and their music. Also, the song reached No. 10 on the Bugs real-time chart and No. 62 on the Genie real-time chart, setting new records for the group on both platforms. 

BOYNEXTDOOR is on a roll

Other tracks from the album have also received positive feedback, entering the real-time charts on Bugs and Genie, except for the English version of the title track. 

To date, “Earth, Wind, & Fire” has won three music shows, the latest being Music Bank. BOYNEXTDOOR beat ILLIT’s “Magnetic” on this week’s episode of the KBS2 music show. Zico’s boys took the win with a grand total of 11,210 points. 

Winner’s Ceremony – BOYNEXTDOOR [Music Bank] | KBS WORLD TV 240426

Adding to the excitement, HYBE Labels chairman Bang Si-Hyuk made a surprise visit to the group’s first-ever pop-up store at The Hyundai Seoul on April 19. Bang Si-Hyuk took a guided tour of the pop-up space, taking photos and videos of the various displays. The pop-up store, dubbed “BOYNEXTDOOR Ground in The Hyundai Seoul,” will remain open until April 28.

With their new album charting well and “Earth, Wind, & Fire” going viral, it’s clear that BOYNEXTDOOR is on a roll. Congrats, boys! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: On the heels of their chart success, BOYNEXTDOOR won first place on Music Bank. Source: X/@BOYNEXTDOOR_KOZ. 

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

AERA Held a Magazine Publishing Exhibit Featuring BTS’s Jimin

AERA, a well-known Japanese weekly magazine, recently hosted an exhibit titled The Making of a Magazine. At the exhibit, attendees got an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the production of its issues, including the April 2023 issue featuring BTS’s Jimin on the cover. This event took place at the COVER library in Tokyu Plaza Harajuku Harakado from April 17 to April 23.

The April issue, released shortly after Jimin’s debut solo album FACE,included a stunning 12-page spread that captured the hearts of ARMYs worldwide. The photos, taken by acclaimed photographer Mika Ninagawa, made the spread even more appealing.

Mika, the daughter of famed theater director Yukio Ninagawa, rose to prominence in the late 1990s as part of Japan’s “Girly Photo” movement. She made her directing debut with the film Sakuran in 2007, followed by the music video for AKB48’s “Heavy Rotation” in 2010. Mika’s signature style of bright, saturated colors and dynamic compositions, which gave the video a lively, eye-catching visual feel, was evident in Jimin’s spread in AERA. The collaboration between Jimin and Mika resulted in visually arresting photos where Jimin, dressed in a mauve pink blazer, was surrounded by a lush floral backdrop.

Jimin is one of K-pop’s most beloved figures

The exhibit gave fans an immersive, informative look at how magazine publishing works. It included a series of displays that explained how the AERA staff puts every issue to bed, shedding light on the entire process from start to finish. Entry to the exhibit was free, which allowed many to experience the magic of magazine publishing and the charm of one of K-pop’s most beloved figures.

One of the highlights was a display featuring previously unreleased photos and videos from Jimin’s cover shoot. Behind-the-scenes content from photoshoots with other artists, including popular figure skater Yuzuru Hanyu, J-pop groups BE:FIRST and INI, and soloist Hiromitsu Kitayama, also had spots in the exhibit. Finally, for those curious about what it’s like to appear in AERA, there was an interactive mirror photo wall where attendees could experience being on the cover of the magazine.

This event celebrated the art of magazine publishing and proved how influential and popular Jimin truly is. Pre-orders for the April 2023 issue soared, topping charts on major Japanese online platforms like Amazon Japan and Net7 even before its official release. The exhibit allowed Jimin’s fans to feel his presence even as he’s serving in the South Korean military. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Don’t you wish you could’ve gone to the exhibit? Source: Instagram/@aera_net.

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HYBE Responds to NewJeans Neglect Accusations

Min Hee Jin’s neglect accusations against HYBE, particularly regarding the alleged neglect of NewJeans in favor of LE SSERAFIM, have ignited a firestorm of controversy within the K-Pop community. Fans, deeply invested in the success of NewJeans, have raised valid concerns about the group’s visibility and promotion under the HYBE umbrella. Now, HYBE has issued a statement regarding the issue.

HYBE Issues Statement Addressing NewJeans Neglect Accusations

In response to mounting criticism, HYBE issued an official statement on April 26, 2024, refuting allegations of neglect towards NewJeans. However, fans remain skeptical, especially in light of Min Hee Jin’s claims that she was barred from promoting the group prior to their official debut. This revelation only adds fuel to the controversy surrounding NewJeans’ management and promotion within HYBE.

“The two teams debuted one after another and did not have enough time to sufficiently promote each other, so we decided to set a promotion period for at least a certain period of time,” the statement read. “The request was made to protect all of the team’s news value, and even this period was shortened in the middle to start promoting NewJeans,” it continues.

One glaring issue fans point out is the stark absence of NewJeans’ content on official HYBE platforms. While other groups enjoy exposure on the HYBE Labels YouTube channel, NewJeans’ promotional material remains confined to their own channel. This discrepancy in visibility raises questions about HYBE’s commitment to promoting the group effectively.

Furthermore, fans note the conspicuous absence of Bang Si Hyuk, the visionary founder of HYBE, in NewJeans’ promotional activities. Unlike his visible support for other HYBE artists, Bang Si Hyuk’s apparent disengagement from NewJeans’ debut has not gone unnoticed by fans, fueling speculation about the group’s treatment within the company.

As tensions escalate between fans, industry insiders, and the entertainment giant, the fate of NewJeans hangs in the balance. Whether HYBE can address concerns and reaffirm its commitment to the group’s success remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: the K-Pop community is watching closely, demanding transparency and accountability from one of the industry’s most influential players.

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MONSTA X I.M Delights Fans With Affordable Concert Ticket Prices

In a music landscape where concert ticket prices seem to be soaring higher each year, MONSTA X’s I.M, with his solo comeback and subsequent tour, has emerged as a beacon of affordability and generosity within the K-Pop realm. Now fans can’t stop talking about their luck when trying to nab the affordable concert ticket to the rapper’s shows.

MONSTA X’s I.M Impresses Fans With Affordable Concert Ticket Prices

With the release of his third EP, “Off The Beat,” featuring a diverse array of tracks like “LURE,” “Bust it,” and “Skyline,” I.M signaled his solo ambitions, captivating fans worldwide. Now, as he embarks on his first solo headline tour, the 2024 ‘Off The Beat’ World Tour, excitement among MONBEBEs is palpable.

Spanning 18 cities across Europe, North America, and Asia, I.M’s tour promises an electrifying experience for fans. What sets his tour apart, however, is not just the music but also the remarkably affordable ticket prices. General admission tickets, priced at around $50 USD for most stops, make the tour accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, VIP tickets, which offer exclusive perks like soundcheck access and send-offs, are reasonably priced at around $100 USD.

The affordability of I.M’s tour stands out in stark contrast to the trend of escalating concert ticket prices observed across the industry. This unexpected affordability has garnered praise from netizens and fans alike, highlighting I.M’s consideration for his fans’ financial accessibility.

Moreover, I.M’s philanthropic gesture further cements his reputation as an artist with a heart of gold. With a portion of the ticket sales from his Boston, MA, show earmarked for The Shout Syndicate, a local charity, I.M demonstrates his commitment to giving back to the community. This act is particularly poignant as Boston holds a special place in I.M’s heart, having lived there for three years.

The overwhelming demand for I.M’s tour has led to venue upgrades and additional concert dates, further underscoring the enthusiasm surrounding his solo endeavors. As MONSTA X’s rapper ventures into the spotlight on his own, his affordable tour prices and charitable initiatives serve as a refreshing reminder of the positive impact artists can have on their fans and communities alike.

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