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TWICE Confirms ‘K League vs. Tottenham Hotspur Match’ Half-Time Performance

TWICE is set for a half-time performance for the highly anticipated ‘K League vs. Tottenham Hotspur’ soccer match.

TWICE Set for Half-Time Performance at Soccer Match

On July 16, Coupang Play announced the exciting news, revealing that TWICE will be gracing the stage during the first game of the ‘2024 Coupang Play Series.’ This event is scheduled to take place on July 31 at 8 PM KST at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

The members of TWICE expressed their enthusiasm for the upcoming performance, stating, “We’re happy to perform at the halftime show of the ‘2024 Coupang Play Series.’ We’ll do our best to perform an amazing show for the fans who’ve been waiting for this event.” This statement reflects the group’s commitment to delivering an exceptional performance and their appreciation for their supportive fans.

The match itself is generating significant buzz as it features Team K League going up against Tottenham Hotspur, with the latter returning to the field with their star player Son Heung Min as team captain. The inclusion of Son Heung Min, a beloved figure in Korean and international soccer, adds an extra layer of excitement to the game.

An Exciting Event for All

The ‘2024 Coupang Play Series’ also aims to provide a thrilling experience for soccer fans, combining top-tier sportsmanship with high-quality entertainment. TWICE’s performance is expected to be a highlight of the event, drawing in their global fanbase and adding to the celebratory atmosphere of the match.

Fans of both soccer and K-pop are eagerly awaiting this unique convergence of sports and music, which promises to be a memorable evening. The event underscores TWICE’s continued influence and popularity, as well as the growing trend of integrating diverse entertainment forms to enhance the spectator experience at major sports events.

Fans can also look forward to TWICE’s halftime performance on July 31 at 8 PM KST at the Seoul World Cup Stadium.

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FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘Pachinko’ Season 2 Set for August Premiere

“Pachinko,” the critically acclaimed series starring Yoon Yeo Jung, Kim Min Ha, and Lee Min Ho, is set to return for its highly anticipated second season this summer. Apple TV+ announced that “Pachinko” Season 2 will premiere this August.

‘Pachinko’ Season 2 To Premiere on Apple TV+ in August

The series, based on Min Jin Lee’s bestselling novel of the same name, is a sweeping saga of forbidden love, crossing boundaries and time periods between Korea, Japan, and the United States. The narrative spans four generations of a Korean immigrant family, tracing their journey from Japanese colonial rule to the 1980s. Season 1 also garnered widespread acclaim, winning numerous awards including Best Foreign Language Series at the Critics Choice Awards, Breakthrough Series over 40 Minutes at the Gotham Awards, and Best Ensemble Cast at the Independent Spirit Awards.

Season 1 of “Pachinko” primarily focused on Sunja (portrayed by both Kim Min Ha and Yoon Yeo Jung) and her family’s efforts to survive and thrive amid historical upheavals. The story also began in the early 1900s with Sunja’s encounter with Hansu (Lee Min Ho), a mysterious new broker in Yeongdo, Busan, setting the stage for a complex and emotive narrative.

In Season 2, the plot will also delve deeper into the lives of Sunja and her family as they navigate their roles as mothers and builders of a resilient future. The new season also promises to continue touching audiences worldwide with its powerful portrayal of love, perseverance, and the immigrant experience.

‘Pachinko’ Season 2 will also consist of eight episodes, with the first episode debuting on August 23. Subsequent episodes will be released weekly every Friday, culminating on October 11 on Apple TV+. Fans of the series can also look forward to an expanded storyline that will further explore the rich, interwoven lives of the characters they have come to love.

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Cha Eunwoo Reunites with ‘True Beauty’ Cast

Netizens have been treated to an unexpected reunion between the beloved “True Beauty” cast. Cha Eun Woo and the stars of the hit Korean drama that captured hearts worldwide proved once again that they continue to maintain their close friendship.

‘True Beauty’ Cast Reunite for Lee Se Mi’s Play

Recently, Moon Ga Young, ASTRO‘s Cha Eunwoo, Kang Min Ah, and Lee Sang Jin attended a performance of Lee Se Mi‘s latest play. A photo of the five actors together quickly went viral, evoking a wave of nostalgia and excitement among fans. The reunion of these cherished cast members brought joy to many, although there was a hint of sadness as Hwang In Youp was noticeably absent from the gathering.

The camaraderie among the cast didn’t end with the play. Four of the stars—Moon Ga Young, Cha Eunwoo, Kang Min Ah, and Lee Sang Jin—continued to spend quality time together. They were spotted having fun in a photo booth, capturing playful and heartwarming moments. Eunwoo shared these photos on social media, further thrilling fans with glimpses of their continued bond.

The photos showcased the cast’s genuine affection and support for each other, highlighting the strong friendships that have endured beyond the show’s conclusion. Fans were particularly touched to see how these actors have remained close, despite their busy schedules and various professional commitments.

Netizens also flooded social media with comments expressing their love for the reunion. They praised the cast for their enduring friendship and the way they always show up for one another’s projects and milestones. The heartfelt responses also emphasized how much “True Beauty” and its cast mean to their fans, serving as a testament to the lasting impact of the drama.

Overall, the reunion of the “True Beauty” cast was also a delightful surprise that warmed the hearts of fans, reminding everyone of the special bond shared by these talented actors.

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ZEROBASEONE Announces Dates and Locations for ‘TIMELESS WORLD’ Tour

Get ready for ZEROBASEONE’s first-ever tour! The boy group has just revealed the dates and locations for the ‘TIMELESS WORLD’ tour!

ZEROBASEONE Hypes Up ‘TIMELESS WORLD’ Tour

The highly anticipated announcement was made on July 15 by WAKEONE Entertainment, revealing the dates and locations for the 2024 ZEROBASEONE The First Tour “TIMELESS WORLD.”

The tour will kick off with a three-day concert in Seoul from September 20 to 22, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for the group and their fans. Following the Seoul concerts, ZEROBASEONE will also bring their performances to various international stages, visiting key cities across Asia. The tour will make stops in Singapore, Bangkok, Manila, Jakarta, Macau, Aichi, and Kanagawa, ensuring a wide-reaching experience for fans across the region.

A Big Year for ZEROBASEONE

ZEROBASEONE, known for their dynamic performances and engaging stage presence, promises a memorable and thrilling experience for their fans. The “TIMELESS WORLD” tour aims to showcase the group’s musical versatility and captivating performances, highlighting their growth and potential as a rising force in the K-pop industry. Each concert will also be a celebration of their music, featuring a mix of their popular hits and possibly some new surprises for their audience.

Fans are also eagerly anticipating the tour, and the announcement has already generated significant buzz on social media. The tour represents a significant milestone for ZEROBASEONE, as it marks their first major tour since their debut. The group’s commitment to delivering high-energy performances and connecting with their fans on a deeper level is evident in the meticulous planning and execution of the tour schedule.

Tickets for the concerts are also expected to sell out quickly, as fans from around the world are eager to see ZEROBASEONE live. The tour will not only provide an opportunity for the group to showcase their talents but also to build a stronger connection with their international fanbase.

As the tour dates approach, excitement also continues to build, and ZEROBASEONE is poised to make a lasting impact with their “TIMELESS WORLD” tour. Fans can also look forward to an unforgettable concert experience, filled with music, energy, and a sense of unity that transcends borders.

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BIGBANG Taeyang Announces First Solo Concert In 7 Years

BIGBANG’s Taeyang is set to host his first solo concert in over seven years, igniting excitement among fans worldwide.

BIGBANG Member Taeyang Confirms First Solo Concert Since 2017

On July 15, THEBLACKLABEL revealed the poster for the TAEYANG 2024 TOUR “THE LIGHT YEAR” in Seoul across its official social media channels, officially announcing Taeyang’s much-anticipated return to the stage.

The poster, featuring Taeyang gazing intensely ahead, has sparked significant anticipation. Known for his unique presence and dynamic performances, Taeyang’s solo concert promises to be a memorable event. The concert marks his first solo endeavor since 2017, and fans are eagerly looking forward to the stages he will present, given his history of hit songs and captivating performances.

In addition to the Seoul concert, plans for an Asia tour are also in the works. This news has also heightened excitement among international fans, who are eager to see Taeyang perform live. The tour also aims to bring Taeyang’s powerful performances to a broader audience, ensuring that fans across Asia will have the opportunity to experience his music firsthand.

Taeyang’s Return

The Seoul concert, titled “THE LIGHT YEAR,” will take place at the Olympic Hall on August 31 at 6 p.m. KST and September 1 at 5 p.m. KST. The event also introduces a new FAN and SOUND CHECK EXPERIENCE package, offering fans an exclusive opportunity to attend the artist’s sound check, participate in a photo benefit, engage in a Q&A session, and more. This special package is also designed to provide a deeper, more personal experience for Taeyang’s dedicated fans.

Ticket reservations for the Seoul concert will open on Interpark at 12 p.m. KST on July 17. Fans are also expected to flock to secure their spots for what promises to be a spectacular return to the stage for Taeyang. This concert not only marks a significant moment in Taeyang’s career but also serves as a celebration of his enduring appeal and artistic talent.

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Giselle Discusses aespa’s Team Strength

Giselle has opened up about aespa’s team strength and what it takes to keep the group going. In addition to that, she spoke to ELLE Korea about her visit to Paris earlier in March.

aespa’s Giselle on the Group’s Team Strength

In a recent interview for ELLE Korea’s August 2024 issue, Giselle of aespa shared insights into the group’s team strength.

Reflecting on what sets aespa apart, Giselle highlighted the group’s unique identity. “Every musician has their own unique color, but the consistency in showcasing and highlighting a clear concept is the strength that aespa possesses,” she explained. She further emphasized the importance of the members’ commitment, saying, “the members are also actively enjoying our distinct worldview every day,” showcasing her dedication to the team.

Giselle also spoke about the success of aespa’s first full-length album activities. She expressed pride in the collective effort behind their achievements. “Throughout the promotional activities, I could feel that not only myself and the members but also everyone at the company were working hard together with one mind. Everyone was fully motivated and achieved good results together,” she said. She also expressed excitement about the group’s ongoing SYNK: PARALLEL LINE world tour, promising fans a memorable experience. “For our second world tour, we plan to reach more fans not only through performances but also through various events,” she added.

During her visit to Paris in March for the LOEWE collection show, Giselle reminisced about the photo shoot she did with ELLE at the time. She noted the impact of the weather on the shoot’s atmosphere, stating, “I think the rainy weather captured the mood well in the photo shoot back then, but I was able to pose more freely for today’s shoot in Seoul thanks to the warm weather.” Giselle also reflected on the rich history of LOEWE, comparing it to the depth of music. “LOEWE is a brand that allows you to delve deep, much like delving into music,” she said, drawing a parallel between fashion and her musical journey.

Overall, Giselle’s reflections offer a glimpse into the cohesive efforts and deep commitment that drive aespa, while also highlighting her personal experiences and appreciation for the artistry in both music and fashion.

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

PLAVE Partners With HYBE Labels for Japanese Activities

PLAVE is set to officially debut in Japan. Earlier this year, VLAST Entertainment CEO Lee Seong-gu admitted that he and the members want to expand their presence beyond their homeland. “We don’t know if it’ll happen this year, but we’re focusing on PLAVE’s overseas expansion, hoping to receive love beyond Korea.” Now, their dream is becoming a reality with the help of an influential partner.

PLAVE(플레이브) ‘왜요 왜요 왜?’ | AliExpress 2024 Weverse Con Festival

‘Glocalization’

VLAST Entertainment recently announced, “We have signed an agreement with HYBE Japan for the Japanese debut and activities of our group PLAVE. We anticipate high-quality activities in Japan through this collaboration with HYBE Japan, who has a deep understanding of the Japanese market.”

Earlier this year, rumors were rife that HYBE had acquired VLAST Entertainment, but Lee cleared them up at a press conference. “The rumors about HYBE acquiring us are false. They invested small stakes to help us with overseas expansion, not for funding purposes.”

PLAVE(플레이브) ‘Watch Me Woo!’ | AliExpress 2024 Weverse Con Festival

HYBE Japan will now support PLAVE’s activities. The contract HYBE Japan signed with VLAST Entertainment is the largest of its kind among artists outside HYBE Labels. Its confidence that PLAVE will find success in Japan played a key role in finalizing this agreement. VLAST Entertainment will now actively promote the five-member virtual boy group in the Land of the Rising Sun by working very closely with HYBE Japan.

HYBE Japan employs a ‘glocalization’ strategy, leveraging HYBE‘s global expertise while understanding the Japanese market. They manage strategic planning for K-pop artists in Japan, including music distribution, concerts, product planning and sales, IP-related businesses, content production, media bookings, and PR. PLAVE now has all that and more on their side as they begin promoting in Japan.

PLAVE(플레이브) ‘WAY 4 LUV’ | AliExpress 2024 Weverse Con Festival

About PLAVE

PLAVE, consisting of Yejun, Noah, Bambi, Eunho, and Hamin, quickly gained popularity in Asia since their debut in March 2023. Their second EP, ASTERUM:134-1, topped HMV & BOOKS Japan’s K-pop sales charts for the first half of 2024. Its title track, “WAY 4 LUV,” not only entered the top ranks of South Korean music charts but also made them the first-ever virtual group to win No. 1 on MBC’s Show! Music Core.

PLAVE is known for their advanced use of motion capture technology combined with high-quality visuals and direction. They also garnered much love from fans through interactive live broadcasts. As a self-producing group, all members participate in songwriting, composing, and choreography, showcasing their musical talent and vocal prowess. 

PLAVE(플레이브) ‘니가 사는 그집’ (원곡 : 박진영) | AliExpress 2024 Weverse Con Festival

On April 13 and 14, PLAVE successfully held their first solo fan concert, Hello, Asterum!, at the Olympic Hall in Seoul. The presale saw 70,000 users accessing the ticketing site simultaneously, resulting in a complete sell-out.

Lee expressed gratitude to the fans, “Last year, despite our efforts, nothing worked out. We couldn’t get on shows or receive any offers. Now, thanks to the fans’ love, we are receiving many proposals for TV and commercial appearances. We are very thankful.” – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Thanks to HYBE, PLAVE will finally get to do something they’ve dreamed of doing since debut. Source: X/@plave_official.

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LE SSERAFIM Agency Files Lawsuit Against Min Hee Jin

LE SSERAFIM agency SOURCE Music has initiated legal action against Min Hee-jin, the CEO of Ador.

Min Hee Jin Faces New Lawsuit Filed by LE SSERAFIM Agency

According to reports from the legal community on July 15th, SOURCE Music recently filed a lawsuit in the Seoul Western District Court, seeking 500 million won (approximately $395,000 USD) in damages for defamation, business interference, and insult allegedly caused by Min Hee-jin. This amount could potentially increase as it currently represents only a portion of the total damages claimed by SOURCE Music.

The lawsuit revolves around three primary issues. Firstly, Min Hee-jin claimed that she personally cast the members of NewJeans. Secondly, she made a unilateral decision to debut NewJeans as HYBE’s first girl group. Thirdly, she asserted that SOURCE Music neglected the members of NewJeans.

It’s a well-known fact that some members of NewJeans were former trainees of SOURCE Music. Min Hee-jin has accused SOURCE Music of neglecting these trainees and expressed her dissatisfaction with LE SSERAFIM’s debut preceding that of NewJeans. During her first press conference on April 25th, Min Hee-jin remarked, “We were neglected when managed by SOURCE,” and “All members joined HYBE because of me.” SOURCE Music claims these comments led to rumors suggesting that LE SSERAFIM received preferential treatment, which caused severe online harassment and damage to their reputation.

In response to these allegations, SOURCE Music has reportedly submitted evidence to support their claims. This evidence includes instances where Min Hee-jin, serving as a brand manager, allegedly delayed NewJeans’ debut schedule and acknowledged LE SSERAFIM’s earlier debut. Furthermore, the evidence encompasses examples of damages caused by negative online comments stemming from Min Hee-jin’s remarks.

This legal battle underscores the tensions within the K-pop industry and highlights the complexities involved in managing and debuting new groups. As the case progresses, it will be closely watched by fans and industry insiders alike, eager to see how these allegations and the accompanying legal proceedings unfold.

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Wonwoo Discusses SEVENTEEN’s 9th Anniversary Viewpoint

SEVENTEEN’s Wonwoo recently participated in a photoshoot for the August issue of Arena Homme Plus, where he also discussed the group’s 9th anniversary viewpoint. Reflecting on almost a decade with SEVENTEEN, Wonwoo shared his thoughts and experiences, offering fans a glimpse into his personal journey and the group’s evolution.

Wonwoo Reveals SEVENTEEN’s 9th Anniversary Viewpoint

Wonwoo emphasized the significance of SEVENTEEN’s milestone, expressing gratitude for fans’ unwavering support and the members’ close bond. He acknowledged that reaching a ninth anniversary is a remarkable achievement in the fast-paced world of K-Pop, and he is proud of how far the group has come.

“When I see SEVENTEEN’s albums, they feel like photo albums to me. Each captures moments from our journey through music. Some songs carry a weighty atmosphere from challenging times, while others exude power, born from our determination to overcome those struggles. I want to express it as ‘life.’ SEVENTEEN’s music is our life.”

In the interview, Wonwoo also delved into his personal strengths and how he perceives himself. “I’ve never viewed myself as exceptionally unique or different. Everyone has aspects that are ‘normal.’ My identity revolves around being quite ordinary, and I believe this resonates with a broader audience. Whether it’s through lyrics, words, or my photography, I think the ordinary essence embedded in them is my greatest strength.” He explained that this relatability helps him connect with fans on a deeper level, as they can see themselves in his experiences and expressions.

Wonwoo as a Veteran Idol

When asked about what he values most as a veteran musician, Wonwoo highlighted the importance of maintaining the joy and passion for his craft. “I hope not to lose the fun. These days, I find music and photography incredibly enjoyable. Even if it means less sleep, I love going to the studio, creating songs, and capturing moments with my camera. I want to always remember the joy I feel now.” This statement underscores his dedication to continuously finding inspiration and happiness in his work, ensuring that his creative journey remains fulfilling.

As SEVENTEEN approaches their ninth anniversary, Wonwoo’s reflections and insights offer a heartfelt tribute to the group’s enduring success and his personal growth as an artist.

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PSY Issues Apology Following Weight Loss Backlash

PSY recently addressed his fans and followers with an apology after facing weight loss backlash. However, not everyone is pleased with the singer having to explain his current appearance.

PSY Apologizes After Facing Weight Loss Backlash

Last week, numerous Korean netizens criticized the star’s appearance, accusing him of being “too thin.” On July 14, PSY took to Instagram to share a video of himself enjoying a meal of boiled pork. He accompanied the video with a heartfelt message acknowledging the feedback he received about his appearance. The video shows PSY indulging in a hearty meal of gukbap (pork rice soup) and boiled pork at a renowned restaurant with a 50-year history.

“After receiving harsh criticism for losing weight, and being told by a young man in Subong that I looked thin, and hearing from the audience at Daegu 1st Arena that I looked thin too, I devoured boiled pork with salted shrimp, kimchi, and peppers, mixing them with green onion and seasoning in a rage, until I couldn’t tell if it was broth or tears. I will get a grip,” he wrote.

PSY’s post quickly garnered attention from netizens, who had plenty to say about his eating habits and appearance in the comments. Many continued the “weight management” joke, emphasizing the irony that while the phrase typically implies most K-Pop artists need to lose weight, for PSY, the public concern was over his being too thin.

PSY Being Relatable

The humorous yet supportive comments highlighted the unique position PSY holds in the K-Pop industry, where he has always defied conventional beauty standards. Fans appreciated his candidness and the lighthearted way he addressed the situation.

Despite the controversy, PSY remained busy with his SUMMER SWAG 2024 concerts, which took place in Daegu on July 13 and 14 at Daegu Stadium’s main arena. The concerts were a part of his annual high-energy summer series, drawing large crowds eager to enjoy his performances.

PSY’s response to the backlash demonstrates his down-to-earth nature and his ability to connect with fans through humor and sincerity, further solidifying his beloved status in the entertainment industry.

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