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NCT’s Doyoung Reportedly Making Solo Debut This Year

Doyoung

SM Entertainment has announced that Doyoung, known for his role as a vocalist in NCT, is preparing to release his first solo album. Following in the footsteps of fellow NCT members Taeyong and Ten, Doyoung’s solo debut is highly anticipated, though the release date of his album remains under wraps. All his agency said was that it will drop in the first half of 2024.

Doyoung has carved out a place all his own within NCT, a boy group known for its unique structure. NCT has an unlimited number of members and multiple sub-units based in various cities worldwide. He has been a vital part of several of these sub-units. He was in NCT U, a rotational unit whose members can be changed depending on the song the unit is promoting. He’s in NCT 127, the fixed Seoul-based unit that focuses on hip-hop. His vocal skills have allowed him to contribute significantly to NCT‘s music and performances.

@dolcegabbana

The new #DGSS24 Men’s Collection starring #DolceGabbana Global Ambassador Doyoung.

♬ suono originale – Dolce & Gabbana

What else has Doyoung been up to?

In other news, Doyoung recently made headlines by appearing in a new Dolce and Gabbana campaign. Fans were thrilled to see photos from the campaign showing him wearing different looks from the luxury brand’s newest collection. The fits he wore included a classic white and black double-breasted pinstripe Sicilia-fit jacket and trousers. He also put on a coffee brown cotton V-neck polo shirt with matching tailored two-way stretch twill pants.

Finally, Doyoung impressed with elegant white and beige suits, earning praise from NCTzens for his “aesthetic beauty. Some even called him a “prince” and a “jewel of real beauty.”

Doyoung’s upcoming solo debut is not just a milestone in his career but also a testament to his immense talent as an artist and a performer. Fans are eagerly awaiting the release of his first solo album, confident that it’ll showcase his artistry in new and exciting ways. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Doyoung will surely flex his powerful voice on his solo album. Source: X/@NCTupdating.

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Meet ‘Candy Shop’: All About Brave Entertainment’s New Girl Group

Brave Entertainment has released a handful of dance videos featuring its new four-member girl group, Candy Shop. The agency is showing off the quartet’s dancing and singing on the group’s new YouTube channel, which already has over 1,500 subscribers.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeHDs_aaTiI

Candy Shop (캔디샵) – Dance Performance #1

Candy Shop (캔디샵) – Dance Performance #2

Brave Entertainment also introduced Candy Shop‘s vibrant pink logo, symbolizing the group’s colorful music. The logo features candies bouncing all over the screen, hinting at the group’s dynamic future. 

Founded by Brave Brothers, a former YG Entertainment composer and producer, Brave Entertainment has made a mark in K-pop since its establishment in 2008. Based in Gangnam-gu, Seoul, South Korea, the company has previously launched successful groups like DKB and Brave Girls of “Rollin’” fame. Now, they’re getting ready to do it all over again with Candy Shop.

Candy Shop (캔디샵) OFFICIAL LOGO MOTION

Meet the Candy Shop girls

Candy Shop‘s lineup includes Sui, a 16-year-old who first caught attention on the survival show My Teenage Girl, where she was eliminated in episode 9. Brave Entertainment says she’s a fantastic dancer who’s the mood maker of the group. Next, there’s Sarang, also 16. Previously a trainee at P NATION, Sarang is known for her stage presence. Brave Entertainment calls her the “hidden card” of the group because she has many talents.

Soram, 19, made her acting debut in DKB‘s “All Yours” MV and attended the SL Studio Academy. After passing Brave Entertainment’s final round of auditions in 2021, Soram is expected to charm fans with her acting, dancing, and soulful voice. Yuina, the only Japanese member, whose birth date remains undisclosed, is celebrated for her attractive vocals and visuals.

Candy Shop‘s debut promotions began when Brave Entertainment revealed the deeper meaning behind the group’s name. It came from the words “CAtch aND Draw Youth,” which symbolizes the members’ goal to forge a strong connection with audiences. Brave Brothers and the rest of Brave Entertainment have poured everything into these girls, hoping to replicate the success of their previous groups. 

Candy Shop is set to debut in the first half of 2024. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: These girls are more than just ‘Brave Girls 2.0.’ They have talent and a charm that’s all their own. Source: X/@BRAVE_CandyShop.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Lee Hyori Delivers Commencement Address at Her Alma Mater

Singer Lee Hyori recently addressed her juniors at Kookmin University’s graduation ceremony. An alumna of the university’s School of Performing Arts, she found fame with the first-generation K-pop girl group, Fin.K.L, in 1998. She went solo in 2003, dropping bangers like “10 Minutes” and “U-Go-Girl.”

During the ceremony, attended by around 400 people, the singer and TV host reflected on her undergraduate days. “Twenty-six years ago, I arrived with dreams of becoming a famous figure,” she told her audience. “Back then, I lacked exceptional talent in acting, singing, or even physical attractiveness. Not much has changed, but here I am, still going strong.”

She offered graduates advice drawn from her personal experiences. “People sometimes don’t listen to their close friends, parents, or even the words of wise people. So why would you need to listen to someone lecturing you just because they’re famous? Just go and follow your heart. The person that’s going to cherish you and properly guide you down the right path is no one other than you.”

@halcyonmagazine

가수 이효리가 국민대에 방문하여 졸업생들에게 전한 연설문 중 제일 인상깊은 장면. “여러분을 누구보다 아끼고 올바른 길로 인도하는 건 그 누구도 아닌 여러분 자신”입니다.❤️ ⠀ <English> The most impressive scene from singer Lee Hyori’s speech delivered to the graduates of Kookmin University: “The one who cherishes and guides you more than anyone else is none other than yourself.”❤️ ⠀ <中文> 最令人印象深刻的一幕来自歌手李孝利在国民大学毕业生面前的演讲：“比任何人都更珍惜你们并指引你们走向正确道路的人，除了你们自己，没有其他人。”❤️ ⠀ 📸: 국민대학교 ⠀ #leehyori #leehyolee #leehyoriedits #fyp #kookminuniversity #이효리 #이효리연설 #이효리명언 #국민대학교 #동기부여 #동기부여명언 #李孝利 #李孝利語錄

♬ 오리지널 사운드 – HALCYONMAGAZINE – HALCYONMAGAZINE

Lee Hyori gave the perfect commencement address

She also advised students to believe in themselves. “Sometimes, I get affected by negative, self-sabotaging voices in my head, telling me I’m weak, stupid, or someone that can’t improve. But there are also voices guiding me to the right path, telling me that I’m doing my best and I deserve love. Try to listen to those voices. You might not be able to hear them right away, but you will if you believe in yourself.”

Finally, Lee Hyori reminded them that experience is the best teacher. “Words mean nothing. Only things you experience and go through in life will become yours. Go out into the world, get hurt, and learn in the process. I’ll always be giving you my warmest support.” She ended with a performance of her hit “Chitty Chitty Bang Bang,” drawing applause from the crowd.

Having her speak that day probably meant a lot to the graduates. After all, she went from studying at Kookmin University to a successful career in music. Her speech was enriched by the wisdom of one who walked in their shoes and emerged triumphant. It showed them that anything is possible if they believe in themselves. She inspired, motivated, and prepared the graduates for the next chapter of their lives. It was the perfect commencement address. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Lee Hyori’s speech was by turns funny, inspiring, and moving. Source: X/@netizenbuzz.

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KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Hanteo Music Awards Marred by Safety and Other Issues

The recently concluded Hanteo Music Awards featured a star-studded lineup of performers and presenters. However, it became a trending topic on social media for reasons completely unrelated to the artists or their performances. A series of bizarre incidents overshadowed the event, leading to widespread criticism of the organizers for their apparent lack of crowd management and safety protocols.

@talkabout_kpop

មេីលតែទឹកមុខ idol ក៏កាត់ន័យយល់😓 talking about what happened on the show (hantea music awards2024) #hanteomusicaward2024 #kpop #fyp

♬ Funny – Gold-Tiger

One incident involved a fan allegedly defecating in the standing section, causing chaos among audience members. Additionally, there were reports of an elementary school child urinating in the mosh pit, further contributing to the unsanitary conditions. Idols and fans alike struggled with the situation, with many covering their noses to block out the unpleasant smells. Although many initially refused to believe these reports, multiple attendees confirmed the incidents through photos and videos.

The day after the event, a fan came forward and admitted to being the one who pooped. However, they posted another tweet hours later in which they appeared to retract their statement.

 

The 2024 Hanteo Music Awards was crazy

Security at the event was also criticized. Fans reported that security guards failed to effectively manage the crowd, with idols like aespa and ATEEZ having to step in to instruct the guards on maintaining order. Things escalated when fans began pushing and shoving each other. After ZEROBASEONE performed, someone in the crowd called for Kim Jiwoong to leave the group. Fights broke out in the mosh pit afterwards.

@jaehyunboynextdoor

ATEEZ AND AESPA LOOK SO CONCERN BECAUSE OF THE HANTEO AWARD CROWD 😭😭 #hanteomusicaward #hanteomusicawards2024 #한터뮤직어워즈 #aespa #ateez #karina #hongjoong #mingi #giselle #ningning #winter #awardshow #fyp #fypシ #kpop #kpopfyp #foryou #foryoupage #incident #poop #sunghanbin #idolreaction #kpopidol #hanteoawards2024 #hanteoaward2024 #reaction #추천 #おすすめ #アイドル

♬ Drama – aespa

The chaos didn’t stop there. One fan fainted after they were hit by a lightstick, and disturbingly, attendees found used condoms in the trash, suggesting that some engaged in sexual activities during the performances. Everything that happened raised serious questions about the organizers’ ability to pull off large-scale events, not to mention the safety of those in attendance.

The 2024 Hanteo Music Awards will definitely be remembered, but for all the wrong reasons. The organizers have yet to respond to these reports, leaving the K-pop community awaiting answers. Many are calling for assurances that future events will be properly managed to prevent such unacceptable incidents. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The ceremony was a complete and utter disaster. Source: X/@skpblive.

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EL7Z UP’s Yeeun Celebrates First Anniversary of Solo Debut

Singer Yeeun, formerly of CLC, is gearing up to mark a significant milestone in her music career. Come April, it will be one year since she made her solo debut. Her journey has seen her go from a group member to a solo artist with an identity all her own. To commemorate this occasion, Yeeun will mount an event in Tokyo. YEEUN Solo Debut 1st Anniversary Photo Signing Event in Japan will take place at Iino Hall in Tokyo on April 14. It will serve as a celebration of her career and a heartfelt thank-you to the fans who supported her through the years.

[MV] 예은 (YEEUN) “Strange Way To Love”

Yeeun’s solo career began with the release of her debut EP, The Beginning, a project that aimed to showcase a broader spectrum of her artistry and personality. This was a significant shift from her days with CLC, where the group’s concepts often overshadowed the members’ individual identities. The Beginning had two songs, “Cherry Coke” and “Strange Way to Love,” each representing different sides of Yeeun. “Cherry Coke” blended the sweetness of cherry with the kick of coke, symbolizing the mix of her past and present selves. Meanwhile, “Strange Way to Love” offered a more introspective look at the relationship between artists and their fans.

Will you celebrate with Yeeun in Tokyo?

Embarking on a solo career made Yeeun excited yet nervous. Performing alone, without the familiar presence of her group members, proved to be challenging. However, it also gave her the creative freedom to explore various concepts and genres. Collaborating with producer Ryan Jhun, Yeeun carved out a unique niche for herself in the music industry, drawing on her experiences and insights from her time with CLC.

[MV] 예은 (YEEUN) “Cherry Coke”

Yeeun‘s journey began in 2015 with CLC‘s debut EP, First Love. Despite the group’s disbandment in 2022, she continued to pursue her passion for music. These days, aside from her solo career, she’s also in the project group EL7Z UP, formed through Mnet’s Queendom Puzzle. EL7Z UP has seven members including Yeeun herself. Since releasing their first EP, 7+UP, they have appeared at KCON Saudi Arabia and the 2023 MAMA Awards.

The event she’s mounting in Japan is not just a reflection of everything she’s achieved in the past year. It’s also a testament to her artistic and personal growth. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Will you celebrate with Yeeun in Tokyo? Source: X/@sbsnoriter.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jungkook Wins ‘The Male Artist’ Award at the 2024 PCAs

On February 18, 2024, BTS‘s Jungkook bagged the Male Artist of the Year award at the 49th People’s Choice Awards. The ceremony, which took place in Santa Monica, California, was a night to remember. The Barker Hangar rang with applause and cheers for all who won awards. Hosted by actor Simu Liu, the event was broadcast live on NBC and E! News. A live stream available on Peacock allowed fans to witness the proceedings in real-time.

Jungkook was nominated in four categories, including Pop Artist of the Year, New Artist of the Year, and Collaboration Song of the Year. His Male Artist of the Year victory was particularly significant as he became the first Asian to win that particular category at the People’s Choice Awards. He beat out artists like Bad Bunny, Drake, his “3D” collaborator Jack Harlow, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen, and The Weeknd. This win underscores his popularity, as fan votes determine the outcome of the People’s Choice Awards.

BTS Jung Kook and Stray Kids win People’s Choice Awards

Jungkook continues to make an impact

Fans expressed their joy on social media, congratulating the “Standing Next to You” singer for making history yet again. This victory follows Jungkook‘s win for Collaboration Song of the Year at the 2022 People’s Choice Awards for his song “Left and Right” with Charlie Puth. That means BTS’s golden maknae has two consecutive People’s Choice Awards wins under his belt. It’s remarkable that even as Jungkook serves in the South Korean military, his impact on the international music scene remains strong.

Looking ahead, Jungkook earned nominations in four categories at the 2024 iHeartRadio Music Awards on April 1, 2024. He’s up for Best Music Video, Favorite Debut Album, K-Pop Artist of the Year, and K-Pop Song of the Year. Unfortunately, because he’s off in the 5th Infantry Division with fellow BTS member Jimin, he won’t be performing at the ceremony. But that’s fine because Jungkook has a good chance of winning at least one of those awards anyway. Who knows, if the stars align, he could win all four! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jungkook left top artists in the dust and made history at the same time. Source: X/@calvinklein.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS’s Jimin Earns Nine Wins at the Dabeme Music Awards

On Monday, February 19, BTS‘s Jimin won big at the Dabeme Music Awards 2024, an awards ceremony that honors artists based on fan votes. Conducted online annually, the Dabeme Music Awards revealed their list of winners, much to the delight of fans. Jimin won all nine awards he was up for.

From being named Artist of the Year to being recognized for the dedication of his fans, Jimin‘s haul of trophies this year has filled fans with pride. These achievements are particularly significant as they occur while Jimin is serving in the South Korean military, making the accomplishment even more memorable for fans. Although he’s currently off in the 5th Infantry Division, he continues to rack up awards for his music—a remarkable feat.

Jimin released his first solo mini-album, FACE, on March 24, 2023. The six-track collection had “Like Crazy” as its title track. The album allowed Jimin to stretch himself creatively, especially in terms of his vocal ability. The fact that there are no collaborations on it enables the album to stand as a testament of Jimin’s talent as a soloist. “Like Crazy” and its English version—which also made the album—captivated fans worldwide, becoming Jimin’s first solo No. 1 on the US Billboard Hot 100 Singles Chart.

DABEME MUSIC AWARDS 2024 – WINNERS

Jimin won awards as a soloist too

Therefore, when Dabeme Pop unveiled the winners of its recent awards ceremony, fans were thrilled to see Jimin win awards as a soloist. But he didn’t earn plaudits only for his solo work. His collaborations also received nods from voters. 

Jimin‘s wins at the Dabeme Music Awards included Artist of the Year, Collaboration of the Year for “VIBE” with Taeyang, Fandom of the Year for PJM, K-Pop Album of the Year for FACE, and K-Pop Idol of the Year. Meanwhile, his work on “Like Crazy” earned him Song of the Year, K-Pop Video of the Year, and Video of the Year.

Jimin‘s success at the Dabeme Music Awards 2024 not only highlights his talent but also the support of his fans. Despite being a relatively new soloist, he has already set numerous records and won many awards, with these nine recognitions from the Dabeme Music Awards being the latest. Winning these awards through fan votes is particularly meaningful, showing that even in his absence, the love and support of his fans remain as strong as ever. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Jimin came out on top in nine categories. Isn’t that impressive? Source: X/@JiminGlobal.

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BTS’s j-hope Dropping New Documentary and OST Album Soon

BigHit Music recently unveiled plans for Hope on the Street Vol. 1, a special album that j-hope worked on before enlisting in the South Korean military. This announcement sparked excitement across social media. ARMYs are eagerly awaiting the tracklist, especially amid rumors that Huh Yunjin from LE SSERAFIM recorded a duet with j-hope for the album. While BigHit Music remains tight-lipped about this and other details, fans’ anticipation only grows as the release date approaches.

X/@bts_bighit

However, the album is just one part of a larger endeavor. Alongside Hope on the Street Vol. 1, j-hope will release a six-part docuseries titled Hope on the Street. Through this series, viewers will get to go on a journey with j-hope as he travels to New York, Osaka, Paris, Seoul, and his hometown of Gwangju.

According to a press release from his agency, the idol’s goal is to “communicate with local dancers through movement.” BigHit Music describes both the album and the docuseries as deep dives into dance, which lies at the core of j-hope‘s artistic identity. The promotion schedule and teasers for these projects have since been released.

X/@bts_bighit

A taste of what’s to come

j-hope first teased this project during an appearance on SUCHWITA, the drinking show hosted by his fellow BTS member SUGA. On the July 18, 2023, episode of the show, he talked about the docuseries and album. He hinted that the digital single he released back in March, “on the street (with J. Cole),” was a taste of what’s to come.

“There’ll be new content about my life called Hope on the Street. It’ll be about my dancing and my story,” he said at the time. “The dancing scene is bigger than you think. It just hasn’t risen up to the surface. But if you really dig into it, there are many talented people and it’s a huge market. I experienced that personally. Although I didn’t go to a lot of cities, I traveled the world and filmed with plenty of amazing dancers. That documentary will come out in 2024. It’s literally like its name, Hope on the Street. It’s just j-hope dancing on the street.”

j-hope ‘HOPE ON THE STREET VOL.1’ on delivery

A journey with j-hope

The first episode of Hope on the Street will premiere on March 28. It’ll be available on Amazon Prime for international fans and TVING for Korean viewers. New episodes will drop every Thursday and Friday, offering an intimate look at j-hope‘s journey through dance and his interactions with dancers across the globe.

Since debuting with BTS in 2013 as the group’s main dancer, j-hope has impressed fans worldwide with his dedication and talent. He joined the military on April 18, 2023, and will be discharged on October 17, 2024, after which he can greet fans in person once again. Until then, ARMYs will have to content themselves with seeing the world of dance through his eyes via Hope on the Street. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: BigHit Music announced the release of the album and docuseries around the time of j-hope’s birthday. Source: X/@ABSCBNNews.

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TXT to Make April Comeback With New Album

TOMORROW X TOGETHER (TXT) is preparing for a glamorous return to the music scene with a new album slated for release in April. This album marks TXT‘s first batch of new material since their third full-length album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL dropped in October 2024.

The Name Chapter: FREEFALL sold 2.25 million copies in its first week, marking a personal best for the group. This achievement made them the fastest K-pop act to have two albums sell over a million copies in the first week, all within just four years and seven months of their debut in March 2019. Their success extended beyond sales, as they dominated international charts, including Japan’s Oricon and the US’s Billboard. They also clinched two music show wins with the title track “Chasing That Feeling.” Finally, their second tour TOMORROW X TOGETHER WORLD TOUR <ACT : SWEET MIRAGE> was another highlight for the quintet in 2023. Especially the tour’s finale at the Gocheok Sky Dome in Seoul, South Korea—now that was epic!

With each release, TXT has carved out a niche all their own in the K-pop industry. They have become known for their distinctive concepts, music, and performances. The anticipation for their upcoming album is palpable, especially after the 2024 Golden Disc Awards last January. It was then that TXT first teased their upcoming comeback with “cool performances.” Fans and critics alike are eager to see the new heights Soobin, Yeonjun, Beomgyu, Taehyun, and Hueningkai will reach with their forthcoming album.

The spotlight is firmly on TXT

In other news, TXT emerged as winners at the Hanteo Music Awards, securing the Artist of the Year Grand Prize and the Global Artist Award in both the Asia and North America categories. This recognition underscores their significant impact not only in South Korea but also on the global stage.

Through a video message, the boys expressed, “Thanks to MOA, we had a truly happy year in 2023. We’re preparing a new album to give back to MOA’s love. We will return with great music that only TOMORROW X TOGETHER can do. We will always remember and never forget that we are here because of you.”

TXT is also set to connect with fans through the 2024 TOMORROW X TOGETHER FANLIVE PRESENT X TOGETHER event, scheduled for March 2 and 3 at the Seoul Olympic Park Handball Gymnasium. As they gear up for their comeback, the spotlight is firmly on them, with MOAs eagerly awaiting what promises to be another groundbreaking album from the group. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: MOAs everywhere are looking forward to April. Source: X/@PopBase.

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TWS Signs With Universal Music Group for Global Promotions

TWS is set to make waves on the global music scene through a strategic partnership with Universal Music Group (UMG), the world’s leading music company. Their agency, PLEDIS Entertainment, announced that the rookie group has signed contracts with Geffen Records and Virgin Music for their activities in the US and Japan, respectively. This partnership aims to strengthen the sextet’s album distribution and promotion efforts in these major music markets.

This groundbreaking partnership comes just a month after TWS‘s debut in Korea. They’re the first boy group to debut under PLEDIS Entertainment in nine years, joining the ranks of international sensation SEVENTEEN. Since their debut, TWS—composed of leader Shinyu, and members Dohoon, Hanjin, Jihoon, Kyungmin, and Youngjae—has quickly made a name for themselves. They‘ve appeared on the covers of both domestic and international publications, endorsed various brands, and reached significant sales and streaming milestones.

For instance, TWS has already made an impact by ranking sixth in the highest first-week sales for a K-pop boy group, according to the Hanteo Chart. They also surpassed 100 million cumulative views on their TikTok account within a month, dominated daily music charts, and secured first-place wins on music shows.

@tws_pledis

오늘도 내일도 Together🫧💙 #TWS #투어스 #247WithUs #Sparkling_Blue #PHOTOISM #포토이즘

♬ BFF – TWS

TWS will make big moves

In addition to their music achievements, TWS will be the main performer at Japan’s largest fashion festival, The 38th MyNavi Tokyo Girls Collection 2024 Spring/Summer. Furthermore, a documentary on the group, titled TWS Document 2024.01.22, is scheduled to air on Fuji TV Two channel in Japan on March 8. This marks the first time Fuji TV has produced a documentary on a K-pop group.

The partnership with UMG is a pivotal moment for TWS. Now, they can truly set their sights on conquering the world. After all, they have the extensive network and resources of Geffen Records and Virgin Music at their disposal. Fans around the world can’t wait to see the big moves they’ll make as they work to captivate audiences with their music and performances. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The good news just keeps coming for TWS! Source: X/@TWS_PLEDIS.

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