In a recent appearance on the YouTube show ‘ZIP Daesung,’(G)I-DLE Yuqi opened up about Cube Entertainment’s methods for motivating their idols to lose weight. Yuqi shared that after the Chuseok holiday, Cube Entertainment would weigh all their idols and publicly post their weights for everyone to see.This tactic aimed to embarrass those who had gained weight and compel them to lose it.
(G)I-DLE Yuqi discusses the company’s unique and intense methods for managing idols’ weight
During the YouTube interview, Yuqi explained, “It was during Chuseok. Everyone would gain a lot of weight. But the company printed a list of everyone’s weight and posted it in front of the office…!! For example, ‘Yuqi, XX kg.'” She continued, “Back then, there were Sunbaenims too. Pentagon and HyunA were there, and BTOB seniors could all see it. We had to keep seeing it.”
Yuqi revealed that she lost weight to remove her weight from the public list. She elaborated, “Back then, I lost 5kg in three days. It was a wake-up call. That was posted until we lost weight to our goal weight.” She added, “I thought that was amazing about our company. I still remember my weight from then.”
Daesung was amazed at how Yuqi managed to lose so much weight in a short amount of time. Hence, he asked. She responded, “I ate almost nothing to lose it… I wanted to take down the printout quickly…”
Yuqi’s revelations highlight the intense pressures idols face in the K-pop industry, where image and appearance are often paramount. Her story sheds light on the extreme measures taken by some entertainment companies to ensure their idols meet specific standards. As fans continue to support their favorite artists, it is crucial to recognize the importance of their health and well-being over appearance. The industry must balance maintaining an image and ensuring idols are treated with care and respect.
NewJeans, the rising K-pop sensation, made a grand return with their new single “Supernatural,” showcasing a five-member performance on KBS 2TV’s ‘Music Bank’ on July 12. This event marked a significant moment as NewJeans Hyein joined the stage after recovering from an injury, returning the group to its full strength.
NewJeans Hyein comes back onstage to debut a five-member performance of ‘Supernatural’ on KBS 2TV’s ‘Music Bank’ stage
Newjean’s performance of “Right Now” wows audiences with its flawless choreography and vocal power. Fans were thrilled to see the group back together as they delivered an electrifying performance.
Following their ‘Music Bank’ appearance, NewJeans is set to grace the stages of MBC’s ‘Show! Music Core’ on July 13 and SBS’s ‘Inkigayo’ on July 14. These performances will include not only their latest tracks but also a medley of their popular hits “ETA,” “OMG,” and “Hype Boy” from their previous albums.
This series of performances is especially meaningful as it will mark NewJeansHyein appearing for the first music show since her injury. Her return has been eagerly anticipated, and her presence will reinforce the group’s bond and performance.
In their previous announcements, ADOR, the agency behind NewJeans, had emphasized their commitment to presenting a complete five-member performance on domestic music shows. Their dedication is evident in the intense preparation and energy they displayed on stage, which serves as a heartfelt thank you for the support they received since the group’s debut.
Since the release of “Supernatural” on June 21, NewJeans has actively engaged with fans through various fan meetings and appearances on Japanese music programs. Their promotions included performances on major shows like Fuji TV’s ‘Mezamashi TV’ and ‘Mezamashi 8,’ TV Asahi’s ‘Music Station,’ and Nihon TV’s ‘THE MUSIC DAY 2024.’ These appearances have solidified their popularity and showcased their impressive talent to a wider audience.
“Supernatural” has seen remarkable success, topping domestic music charts and achieving high ranks on global platforms such as Billboard in the U.S., Spotify Japan, and Apple Music Japan. The single has also recorded over 1 million copies in sales, making all five NewJeans releases million-sellers, a testament to their widespread appeal and enduring popularity.
SBS upcoming drama “Good Partner” recently held a press conference, where director Kim Garam and stars Jang Nara, Nam Ji Hyun, Kim Jun Han, and Block B’s P.O. gathered to discuss the series. Written by an actual divorce attorney, “Good Partner” humorously portrays the struggles of two very different divorce lawyers: Cha Eun Kyung (Jang Nara), a star lawyer for whom divorce is a calling, and Han Yu Ri (Nam Ji Hyun), a rookie lawyer who is still learning the ropes.
The ‘Good Partner’ stars discuss their experiences while filming and share thoughts on divorce
Director Kim Garam described Jang Nara, stating, “She is truly intimidating and has an old-fashioned aura. That’s an unflattering way to describe it, but she captivates everyone with her strong presence. She exudes tremendous charisma, which amplifies the highs and lows of the character. Just watching Jang Nara in this drama will leave you breathless.”
In the drama, Jang Narastars as Cha Eun Kyung, a straightforward and sharp-witted veteran lawyer. The newlywed actress explained her decision to take on the role, saying, “When I first read the script at home, my husband read it together with me. His strong recommendation influenced my choice. He has a significant stake in it.” She shyly shared, “While seeing the sad or unjust stories depicted in the drama, I sometimes wonder, ‘Why do people get married?’ But then I return home after work and affectionately ask my husband, ‘You’re back?’ It’s like that.”
When asked if her views on divorce shifted during filming, the actress responds, “Avoiding divorce would be great if possible, but I now understand that it is sometimes necessary. Life can bring discord, and some relationships are toxic. I’ve come to see divorce as serving a practical function and something that needs to be a readily available option.”
Asked which lawyer she would hire if she were getting divorced, Jang Nara responded, “I wouldn’t necessarily want to meet the character of Cha Eun Kyung. But if I were getting a divorce, I’d want Cha Eun Kyung to handle my case.”
On the other hand, Nam Ji Hyun plays Han Yu Ri, a bulldozer rookie lawyer who’s intolerant of injustice. “As a new lawyer, my character and Jang Nara’s character have different stances on cases. We argue based on our respective logic, and sometimes, one of us prevails. Initially, we clashed a lot, but over time, we began to influence each other. I think it will be fun to watch that process unfold,” as she describes her pairing with Jang Nara.
“Good Partner” premiered on July 12 at 10 p.m. KST.
Disney+ upcoming drama “The Tyrant” has released a new poster and teaser video, sparking excitement among fans. The four-part chase action drama centers on the aftermath of a delivery mishap that leads to the disappearance of the final sample from a top-secret program known as the “Tyrant Program.” This sets off a thrilling chain of pursuits involving characters with diverse motives, each aiming to secure the most-chased sample.
Disney+’s upcoming drama shows high-stakes chase in new teaser
The drama features an ensemble cast, including Cha Seung Won, Kim Seon Ho, Kim Kang Woo, and Jo Yoon Soo.Cha Seung Won will portray Im Sang, a former agent tasked with eliminating individuals connected to the Tyrant Program. Meanwhile, Kim Seon Ho will play Director Choi, the secretive mastermind behind the program, linked to a government agency.
In the newly released poster, Jo Yoon Soo, who will play Ja Kyung, appears. She is a skilled technician assigned to retrieve the last sample from the Tyrant Program. The intense profile of Ja Kyung, with black ink-like hues emanating from her, hints at the fierce competition for the program’s last sample. The caption reads, “The vanished last sample, beginning of the rampage.” This will set the tone for the high-stakes drama.
The teaser video starts with the unexpected delivery mishap on a rainy night, leading to the disappearance of the superhuman genes’ last sample. Key characters are introduced as they spring into action: Im Sang, an agent eliminating obstacles; Director Choi, the program’s designer; Paul, a relentless chaser played by Kim Kang Woo; and technician Ja Kyung.
“The Tyrant” promises suspense and intrigue with Cha Seung Won’s portrayal of Im Sang, the former agent on a mission to eliminate those linked to the Tyrant Program. Kim Seon Ho and Kim Kang Woo will add depth to the storyline as they suspensefully pursue the superhuman sample. Lastly, Jo Yoon Soo will touch on the engineering expertise aspect of the sample’s retrieval.
Scheduled to premiere on August 14th, “The Tyrant” is set to captivate audiences with its thrilling narrative and dynamic characters. Don’t miss this high-octane chase drama.
Moon Ga Young and Choi Hyun Wook will star together in the upcoming drama “Black Salt Dragon.” On July 12, tvN confirmed that the two actors are set to star in the series, which will air in the first half of 2025.
Moon Ga Young and Choi Hyun Wook are each others’ first love in ‘Black Salt Dragon’
Based on a popular webtoon,“Black Salt Dragon” tells the love story of a man and woman who first meet through their online game characters during their school days. Sixteen years later, they meet again as boss and employee.
Moon Ga Young will play Baek Soo Jung, a hardworking and talented employee who excels at her job. Known for her grit and willingness to stand up for herself, she often becomes a source of headaches for her office superior, Ban Joo Yeon. She first met him through an online game, which left her with the most embarrassing memory of her life.
Meanwhile, Choi Hyun Wook will portray Ban Joo Yeon, a chaebol heir and the director of the strategic planning division at Yongsung Department Store. As a perfectionist and the sole heir to his family’s conglomerate, Ban Joo Yeon has always been haunted by the rejection of his first love, Baek Soo Jung.
Moon Ga Young and Choi Hyun Wook have rapidly ascended to stardom through their notable performances in various hit dramas and films. She gained widespread recognition for her roles in “Tempted” and “True Beauty.” Similarly, Choi Hyun Wook made a significant impact with his role in the acclaimed series “Racket Boys” and the high school drama “Twenty-Five Twenty-One.”
Naturally, their pairing in this new drama has generated considerable excitement. Fans are eager to see the chemistry between the two actors as they bring this engaging story to life on screen.
Maison Fred has unveiled South Korean singer and songwriter Kim Seok-jin, better known as Jin of BTS, as its first global ambassador. The announcement was accompanied by stunning photos of Jin in stylish outfits, each showcasing different jewelry pieces from the Parisian brand.
Founded in 1936 by Fred Samuel in Paris, the brand established itself as a prestigious jeweler. It gained popularity among celebrities and high society figures. Originally from Argentina, Samuel was inspired by the vibrant atmosphere of the Côte d’Azur, which influenced his designs. Maison Fred became known for creations like the “Pretty Woman” necklace worn by Julia Roberts in the 1990 film and the Force 10 bracelet, which Jin wore for his photoshoot.
In 1995, Maison Fred was acquired by the LVMH Group. Valérie Samuel, Fred Samuel’s granddaughter, currently serves as its artistic director and vice president.
On its official website, Maison Fred stated, “Maison Fred is pleased to announce its new Global Brand Ambassador: Jin of 21st-century emblematic pop icons BTS. As a true generational symbol, he has made a global impact with his talent and personality, continuing to inspire millions of fans worldwide. Both considerate and committed, with a perpetual smile and a great sense of humor, the eternal lover of life perfectly embodies the spirit of Maison Fred.”
The brand added, “Jin’s radiant personality and contemporary, casual chic style chimes with the modernity and individuality of Maison Fred creations. His collaboration with The Sunshine Jeweler promises to shine with a unique sparkle.”
Valérie Samuel added, “His artistic qualities, values and high standards constantly push him to excel, strongly resonating with those of our maison and our founder Fred Samuel, with whom he shares an unwavering optimism and joie de vivre.”
Mindless consumers
Jin himself expressed enthusiasm for the partnership on Instagram. “Grateful to be part of the Fred family as the Global Brand Ambassador,” he wrote. Expect a lot of new and varied looks that we will be showing with Fred in the future.”
Within hours of the announcement, fans noticed that the pieces featured in Jin’s photoshoot for the brand were going fast. A yellow gold bracelet he wore, priced at 375,000 KRW (about 273 USD), sold out quickly. So did the Force 10 Iconic Necklace, which Jin paired with an all-black outfit. Some fans criticized others for buying such expensive jewelry instead of focusing on more pressing issues, with one person calling them “mindless consumers.”
Another fan hit back on X, writing, “People who’re buying $27k jewelry aren’t on Twitter arguing with y’all.” Someone else noted, “Should we tell her that even the 97k necklace is also sold out?” Meanwhile, another fan tried to bring the conversation back to Jin by pointing out that the brand’s website crashed and its Instagram following surged to over 200,000.
Both the ‘Force 10 winch bracelet ($27,127) AND the Force 10 iconic necklace ($97,398) that Seokjin was wearing in the pictures are out of stock now!! THIS IS INSANE!! #Jin#bts#fredjewelry
This deal with Maison Fred is Jin’s first solo endorsement for a luxury brand. In 2021, Louis Vuitton tapped all seven members of BTS to be brand ambassadors. This was back when Virgil Abloh was artistic director for menswear. Before enlisting in the South Korean military 18 months ago, Jin signed a deal with Ottogi to endorse Jin Ramen noodles.
The 31-year-old is the first BTS member to complete his mandatory service, and he quickly reconnected with fans through a “hugathon” event to mark BTS’s 11th anniversary. He also dropped a limited-edition collab with outdoors specialist Kolon, featuring the Wootteo cartoon character from one of his singles.
In a recent Q&A on the fan platform Weverse, Jin revealed that he’s filming variety shows and recording new music. Although he didn’t provide release dates or other details, rumor has it that fans can expect him to drop an album in the second half of the year. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin’s star power caused the brand’s website to crash within hours of the announcement. Source: X/@seokjinism1.
On July 8, BTS’s Jin made headlines when he visited his alma mater, Bosung High School, to film content.
Bosung High School is located in Bangi-dong, Songpa-gu, Seoul. It’s near notable landmarks like the KSPO Dome and the Olympic Park, both of which have served as venues for BTS concerts. The school is known for providing its students with a nurturing environment where they can focus on academic excellence and holistic development. It’s no surprise, then, that the school has produced distinguished alumni like Jin, politician Chun Jung-bae and Samsung Electronics vice-chairman Lee Jae-yong.
Word of Jin’s presence spread across campus like wildfire. As the BTS member walked through the school’s corridors, students eagerly swarmed around him, calling out his name in excitement. Some even confessed their love for him, reminiscent of the stories Jin once shared about his school days, when boys would give him flowers and chocolates.
Netizens cracked up when they saw photos and videos of the students trying to get to Jin. Some said the scene at the school was like something out of the movie Train to Busan, in which hordes of zombies fill the streets of South Korea. The students’ efforts weren’t in vain, as Jin did stop to sign a few autographs.
Several videos and photos of Jin taken by the students quickly spread online. Netizens noticed that he was wearing his old school uniform, sparking discussions about how handsome and young he looked. One fan marveled at how Jin looked even more like a teenager than some actual teens. However, one student—probably because he was sick of wearing the same uniform day in and day out—remarked, “What’s so pretty about our school uniform that you’re wearing it! Wear something expensive! Expensive!”
When clips of Jin toting a yellow umbrella circulated online, fans couldn’t help but be reminded of the popular K-drama LovelyRunner and its male lead Ryu Sun-jae, played by ByeonWoo-seok. Sun-jae often wore a school uniform, and a yellow umbrella that belonged to his love interest figured prominently in the show. Netizens were quick to point out that Jin looked like he could effortlessly play the role of Sun-jae.
Train To Busan but BTS Jin version. These students were running to see Seokjin. From military men to highschool students, we all really have a slim chance of getting that concert ticket in 2025/6.
Netizens wondered what Jin was filming at his old high school. Many fans believed he was creating content for the South Korean YouTube show Secret Transfer Students, where K-pop idols attend a school in uniforms and engage in activities with students, such as games and lunch. The idols also perform special stages for the students.
Previously, the K-pop girl group aespa participated in the show, and fans loved the content that came out of it. Although there’s no official confirmation yet, fans are waiting with bated breath for what Jin has in store for them. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jin posted these on Instagram. He really does look like a high schooler! Source: X/@inquirerdotnet.
BTS’s Jimin has made waves on the UK Official Singles Chart again, this time with a pre-release track from his second solo album. According to the chart dated July 5, Jimin’s new song “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” from MUSE debuted at No. 46. This achievement marks his fifth entry on this prestigious chart as a solo artist. “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” has also topped the UK’s Singles Downloads and Single Sales charts.
Outside of his releases with BTS, Jimin first appeared on the UK Official Singles Chart in 2023 with “VIBE.” This song, a collaboration with BIGBANG’s Taeyang, peaked at No. 96. He followed this with “Set Me Free Pt. 2,” which charted at No. 30, and “Like Crazy,” the title track of his debut solo album FACE, which climbed to No. 8. Also, “Angel Pt. 1,” which Jimin, JVKE, and Muni Long did for the Fast & Furious: Ride or Die OST, went to No. 82.
The song is also succeeding in the US, where it entered the Billboard Hot 100 singles chart at No. 88 for the week of July 13. This makes it Jimin’s fifth solo track to chart on Billboard, after “VIBE,” which debuted at No. 76. His biggest Hot 100 hit, of course, was “Like Crazy.” It went to No. 1, making Jimin the first Korean soloist to achieve such a feat.
Jimin ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (feat. Loco)’ 1st Win M COUNTDOWN
Jimin triumphed on M Countdown
Speaking of firsts, Jimin recently earned his first music show victory for “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco).” On the July 11 episode of Mnet’s M Countdown, Jimin went up against BABYMONSTER’s “FOREVER” for the win. Ultimately, he triumphed with a total of 7,574 points. Not surprising, because “Smeraldo Garden Marching Band (featuring Loco)” is backed by big band orchestral elements and hip-hop beats that, when combined with Jimin’s vibrant vocals and Loco’s smooth rapping, create a unique track that stands out.
Jimin has also revealed what inspired him to do the song in a behind-the-scenes video for the BANGTANTV YouTube channel.
Meanwhile, at midnight on July 6, BTS’s official social media shared new mood photos for the second concept of MUSE, titled “SERENADE.” The first concept, “BLOOMING,” focused on flowers, while the “SERENADE” concept featured a guitar as the main prop. In these photos, Jimin was clad in an elegant black suit, standing next to a vintage guitar. More photos and clips for “SERENADE” dropped on July 7. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Jimin’s cheerful new song is bounding up charts worldwide. Source: Weverse.
On July 2, a video titled “A Moment in Capri with Jennie” went live on her YouTube channel. One clip included in the video showed Jennie holding a black object to her mouth while getting her makeup done. Moments later, she exhaled a cloud of white smoke. The K-pop superstar was subsequently criticized, not just for smoking, but also for being inconsiderate to any non-smokers who were in close proximity to her. Her team has reuploaded the video, and the offending scene has been removed.
A Moment in Capri with Jennie
A week later, Jennie’s agency, Odd Atelier, issued an apology on her behalf. The agency stated, “We sincerely apologize to everyone who felt uncomfortable with Jennie’s behavior in the content released on the 2nd. Jennie also deeply regrets smoking indoors and causing discomfort to the staff. She has personally contacted the staff who were present at the scene to apologize.”
The statement ended with these words: “We also apologize to the fans who were disappointed and promise to show a more mature and better side in the future.”
How will Jennie deal with the backlash?
The controversy didn’t end there. A netizen actually contacted the Korean Embassy in Italy to complain about the incident. Believing that the video was filmed on Capri Island, Italy, the netizen said, “I reported it to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, urging the embassy to request an investigation from the Italian authorities on Jennie’s indoor smoking incident and to impose strict penalties accordingly. I am deeply disappointed by Jennie’s diplomatic faux pas and hope she takes this time to reflect.”
On July 11, an anonymous individual claiming to be one of the staff members who worked with Jennie that day, defended her in an interview with the South Korean media outlet Sports Chosun. They claimed she had simply taken a drag from a bubble pen, which is often sold at convenience stores, while her staff was looking for a lip product. The individual added that Jennie apologized repeatedly afterwards, and the staff involved, who were also smokers, said it was fine.
Staff Member Defends Jennie Amid Smoking Controversy. Yong Jun Hyung Defends Himself Against ‘Jung Joon Young Chatroom’ Allegations. Debate Sparks Over ENHYPEN Choreography and Jay’s Knee Strain Concerns. Yuqi Reveals Harsh Weight Loss Pressure at CUBE Entertainment. #kpop#kpopupdates#kpopnews#jennie#yongjunhyung#enhypen#jay#gidle#yuqi#kpoppers#kpopfypシ
“Although it is a problem that the smoke brushed by the top of the staff’s head, I think it’s not right for her past actions to be mentioned together as part of an attitude controversy [with this issue.] As her IRL friend, I’m leaving a comment as I feel upset that she is being misunderstood like this,” the individual said.
However, a follow-up report by XportsNews revealed that the person who defended Jennie was not an actual on-site staff member but a fan who pretended to be one. As this story develops, the public will be watching closely to see how Jennie and her management will deal with the ongoing backlash. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: She went to Italy for a fashion show and came home bearing backlash. Source: X/@JenniePeruBP.
Fans of ATEEZ member San recently accused fashion brand Dolce & Gabbana of racism after pictures of the K-pop singer at a fashion show went viral. Last July 2, San attended the Dolce & Gabbana Alta Moda event in Sardinia, Italy, attracting much attention for his unique outfit.
San wore a chestplate shirt paired with sleek satin brown pants. The harness-style plate, designed to resemble ornate molding, shone under the fashion show lights with its patent chocolate-brown finish. He mingled comfortably with other high-profile attendees, posing for photos with NaomiCampbell and sitting next to HalleBailey and AlessandraAmbrosio in the front row. The latter even followed him back on Instagram after the event.
Despite his front-row seat, San was photographed squeezed between two people without a cushion to sit on, unlike others around him. This led fans to accuse the event’s organizers of racism, with ATINYs expressing frustration over San’s apparent discomfort and his outfit, which they felt was too revealing. They were worried that it was uncomfortable compared to the other attendees’ outfits.
Dolce & Gabbana accused of racially discriminating ATEEZ San
San addressed these concerns
Days later, San addressed these concerns during a POP! Livestream, saying, “It’s sad to see misunderstandings happening.” He added that he didn’t experience any racism at the show. “It was a great experience for me. As for the cushion, it was my doing. The people around me—myself included—were big, and sometimes they had to sit on the edge as well. The seat wasn’t large enough.”
Regarding his shirt, San said, “It was my favorite among the ten outfits prepared by the brand. I wanted to be recognized in the fashion world through that daring outfit.”
He also shared that he had a positive interaction with the designers, including a dinner with Italian designer Domenico Dolce, who he affectionately dubbed “Grandpa Dolce.” According to San, the designer was very kind to him. “We talked about various things. He even said, ‘Italians love you.’ I had a great time!”
San considered his experience at the show an early birthday present, as he turned another year older the week after returning from Italy. He posted a heartfelt message thanking ATINYs for their birthday wishes and expressing his gratitude for their support. “I feel like I received a precious gift from you, so I feel good, and I want to come closer to you with a cooler side of me in the future,” he wrote.
He added, “I hope that you guys who are next to me are the happiest today. I also hope your work, meals, and daily routine are filled with things that make you smile. I always wonder how I should repay the love I receive, but I’ll do everything I can to show it to you with my heart and my performances. Thank you for always being by my side. I hope in the days ahead, that happiness and I will be there for you. Fighting! I love you 3000.”
Meanwhile, ATEEZ will be embarking on their ATEEZ WORLD TOUR [TOWARD THE LIGHT: WILL TO POWER] in North America from July 14 to August 11, with stops in cities like Oakland, Los Angeles, and New York. – K-Pop News Writer
Featured Image: Contrary to fans’ speculations, San chose this outfit himself because he wanted to stand out at the Dolce & Gabbana event. Source: W Magazine.
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