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BTS’s Jin Causes a Stir While Filming Content at His Old High School

Jin

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.

@kkyukiee97

bro became a seal in a sight of a pretty boy kim seokjin 😭😭🤣 #jin #seokjin #김석진 #kpopfyp #진 #explore #highschool

♬ Hey Daddy (Daddy’s Home TikTok Remix) – dreamsoda

Jin looked handsome and young

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 Lovely Runner and its male lead Ryu Sun-jae, played by Byeon Woo-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.

@sol_loves_bts

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.

♬ Eh eh eh eh ehh ehhhhh ehhhhh – Ako si Mon

Waiting with bated breath

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.

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BTS’s Jimin Enjoys Chart Success With ‘Smeraldo Garden Marching Band’

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.

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BLACKPINK’s Jennie Faces Backlash for Smoking Indoors

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.

@kpoppalerts

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

♬ original sound – kpoppalerts

“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.

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ATEEZ’s San Shuts Down Rumors of Racism at Dolce & Gabbana Event

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 Naomi Campbell and sitting next to Halle Bailey and Alessandra Ambrosio 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!”

@jghveai

they filmed the vid with their ass atp #choisan #san #foryou #viral #fyp #에이티즈 #ateez #dolcegabbana #domenicodolce

♬ original sound – ridz – ridz

An early birthday present

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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Yong Jun Hyung Responds to Rumors and Clarifies Chatroom Scandal

In March 2019, Yong Jun Hyung’s name was mentioned in connection with the ‘Jung Joon Young chatroom’ scandal, leading to his departure from Highlight and controversy. At that time, Yong Jun Hyung admitted to receiving illegal recordings from Jung Joon Young’s chatroom, although he was not a member. Subsequently, he enlisted in the military, leading to a hiatus.

Yong Jun Hyung addresses past mistakes and clears up misunderstandings about the infamous chatroom scandal

On July 12, Yong Jun Hyung acknowledged his mistakes, stating, “At that time, I was foolish and wrong. I couldn’t correct the wrong situation, and, not knowing what the right choice was, I didn’t want to cause harm to the company and the members due to the heated criticism. In fear, I chose to leave the place that had been everything to me for years, determined to lose everything I cherished.”

He elaborated on the specifics of the incident, explaining, “I clicked on a video sent via a black screen in a personal messenger without any explanation. Before I viewed it, I didn’t know what it was or the intention behind it. Later, I could have said, ‘Stop it, this is wrong,’ but I wasn’t the person who could say such things, and I passed it off lightly.” He emphasized, “However, as I said then and have pleaded since, I never entered that group chat room, nor was I involved in the events I don’t even want to mention.”

“For years, the media and many people have mentioned me as one of the people involved in that incident and a chatroom member. They said I consumed illegal recordings. Even though I clarified the parts that weren’t true, no one listened, and I became the same as those unrelated people in every article,” he said, to express his frustration with the circulating rumors.

In a heartfelt plea, he adds, “Even if I get hurt and scarred, I will endure it. Please, I earnestly ask that my loved ones, including my family, fans who look at me despite my shortcomings, and everyone else don’t get hurt.

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Netflix Teases New Reality Show “The Influencer”

Netflix announced on July 9 that the new survival reality show “The Influencer,” created by Lee Jae-seok and Son Soo-jeong, will premiere on August 6. The show will feature 77 South Korean influencers competing to see who can wield the most influence.

“The Influencer” gives viewers a sneak peek into the newest, most thrilling reality show

The recently released trailer showcases celebrities like Jang Geun-seok and influencers Risabae, Pani Bottle, Jin Yong-jin, Shim Euddeum, and Daedo Library. TikToker Xiajiu, with 27.5 million followers, also appears. The success of other Korean reality shows, such as “Physical: 100” and “Siren: Survive the Island,” prompted Netflix to introduce this new concept.

The concept hints at exciting and surprising challenges. The trailer reveals contestants displaying their follower counts on headbands and engaging in intense tasks like shaving their eyebrows, wearing costumes, and shedding tears.

Producer Lee Jae-seok commented on the show’s unique concept: “I thought it would be interesting to bring together influencers in one place divided based on algorithms. In addition to meeting Korea’s biggest influencers, you’ll participate in never-before-seen social survival missions and unique entertainment thanks to Netflix’s scale and stunning visuals.”

More details about the the upcoming survival show

The show will feature first-generation producers and Gen Z TikTokers followed by millions worldwide. Although all 77 influencers’ names are not yet revealed, notable participants include actor and singer Jang Geun-seok, makeup YouTuber Risabae, travel YouTuber Pani Bottle, director and rapper Jin Yong-jin, pilates instructor Shim Euddeum from “Physical: 100” season 1, and TikToker Xiajiu.

Now more than ever, global viewers crave and lean more into reality TV. Not too long ago, viewers were just as obsessed with too-good-to-be-true tropes and tales set in distant worlds. Back then, this was the only heart of the Hallyu wave, along with the K-Pop industry.

The demand for reality shows like this significantly increased after the success of other shows like Single’s Inferno, Physical: 100, and Siren: The Survival Island. Even the series Squid Game was adopted into a UK reality show. “The Influencer” promises to be an intense and engaging competition, reflecting the diverse talents and personalities of South Korea’s top influencers.

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Suzy Bae And Park Bo Gum Are Lovers Reunited By AI in “Wonderland”

The upcoming movie “Wonderland” finally released its official trailer and is set for global this July 26, except in South Korea. The film features Suzy Bae and Park Bo Gum, marking his first role since the 2021 film “Seo Bok.”

‘Wonderland’ will bring families and lovers back together in an AI universe

According to Netflix, the film will bring audiences “into a simulated universe where people can reunite with their departed loved ones” through a video call service called ‘Wonderland’.

The film will include notable cast members like Jung Yu-mi, Choi Woo-shik, Gong Yoo, and Chinese actress Tang Wei. “The film explores the intriguing concept of using artificial intelligence to recreate the deceased, making it possible to once again communicate with those we love,” Netflix added. This unique concept of reuniting with loved ones through AI adds a new layer of emotional depth and technological intrigue to the film.

In the newly released trailer, the film gives viewers a glimpse of the fantasy sci-fi setting and the touching, parallel storylines that will unfold throughout the film. Suzy Bae takes on the role of Jung In, who reconstructs her boyfriend, Tae Joo (played by Park Bo Gum), who lies in a coma following an accident. Using the simulated universe service, Tae Joo can wake up from unconsciousness.

On the other hand, Gong Yoo will play the role of AI Sung Joon, who communicates with the Wonderland service’s planners while monitoring the emotional changes of AI Bai Li, portrayed by Tang Wei. Bai Li has been constructed as an archaeologist through the Wonderland service.

The new film was initially set for release in 2021 but was delayed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The movie completed filming in 2020 and was indefinitely postponed due to the pandemic and its impact on theaters. Despite this, the production and the cast hope for a successful global release and a positive audience response.

“Wonderland” is set to captivate audiences with its heartfelt narrative and stellar performances.

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Kim Hyun Jae Cleared of School Bullying Accusations in Court

Former BLACK6IX member Kim Hyun Jae, known by his stage name The King, has been officially cleared of all school bullying accusations. The Seoul Central District Court recently ruled in favour of Kim Hyun Jae, finding his accuser guilty of making false claims. This ruling comes after a year-long legal battle that began when the allegations surfaced in March last year.

Kim Hyun Jae wins year-long battle against school bullying accusations, court rules

On July 10, Kim Hyun Jae announced the court’s decision via Instagram, expressing relief and gratitude. The court ordered the accuser, a former elementary and middle school classmate, to pay damages. This ruling confirms that all accusations against the idol were unfounded.

Kim Hyun Jae initially gained attention as a member of Team 24:00 on the JTBC competition show “Peak Time,” which aired in early 2023. However, the emergence of the school bullying accusations led him to withdraw from the program to avoid negatively impacting other contestants. Following his withdrawal, he took legal action against his accuser, seeking justice for the false allegations.

The former idol debuted with BLACK6IX in April 2017 and has since worked to establish himself in the entertainment industry. The recent court ruling marks a significant victory for him, as it not only clears his name but also holds the accuser accountable for the false accusations.

In South Korea, false accusations against idols have become a significant issue, often resulting in severe consequences for the accused individuals. These allegations can lead to substantial damage to an idol’s career and reputation, even if they are later proven to be untrue. High-profile cases, such as those involving members of popular groups like T-ara and AOA, have emphasized the damaging impact of baseless claims.

In reflection, he thanked his supporters and legal team for their unwavering support. He emphasized the importance of addressing false claims and the impact such accusations can have on one’s life and career.

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DJ Yesong Appeals 10-Year Sentence For Fatal Drunk Driving Incident

DJ Yesong, whose real name is Ahn Ye Song, has filed an appeal against her 10-year prison sentence following a fatal drunk driving accident in Gangnam, Seoul. On July 10, her lawyer, Ahn Wang Seon from the law firm Dongsuhnam, submitted the appeal to Judge Kim Ji Young of the Seoul Central District Court’s 25th Criminal Division.

A day before her appeal, the court sentenced Ahn Ye Song to 10 years in prison. The incident occurred on February 3, when she caused a fatal accident that led to the death of a 50-year-old delivery man. The victim suffered a cardiac arrest and was pronounced dead at the hospital. That night, it was found out her blood alcohol concentration was 0.221%.

DJ Yesong files a court appeal and writes 75 letters of apology after fatal drunk driving

The court stated, “The victim from the first accident testified that the defendant (Ahn Ye Song) got out of the car immediately after the accident and said, ‘Do I look like I drank a lot? Please overlook this just once.’ She made no effort to handle the accident and did not report it to the police.” Additionally, the court said, “Despite needing to stay at the scene, she left without any explanation. She did not take the necessary protective measures required by traffic laws. She fled the scene to escape.”

Further, the court stated, “Although she claimed to have no memory of the accident, dashcam footage showed she conversed with the victim. Yet, she is denying the charges related to rescue measures with implausible excuses. There is also doubt about whether she is genuinely remorseful.”

The court added, “The victim from the second accident eventually died. Although the bereaved family agreed not to pursue punishment, the victim could not express his own wishes as he had passed away.”

Investigations revealed that Ahn Ye Song had caused another traffic accident shortly before this fatal one and fled the scene. She was arrested at the scene of the fatal accident, and the court issued a detention warrant, citing the risk of flight.

In contrast, her defense highlighted the settlement with the bereaved family and pleaded leniency. Her lawyer emphasized, “She has extraordinary talent in the entertainment field and has promoted national prestige with performances in China, Thailand, and Taiwan. She has deeply reflected on her actions and submitted 75 letters of apology.”

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Former N.CUS Member Soon Reveals Girlfriend, Quits Being an Idol

Former N.CUS member Soon, known as Nam Seung Hyun, recently caused a stir by revealing his girlfriend on social media. Soon, who participated in the survival program “My Teenage Boy: Fantasy Boys,” went viral among Japanese fans on July 4 after sharing photos and matching Instagram bios with his girlfriend. The public posts quickly garnered over two million views on X, sparking a wave of mixed reactions from fans.

Many fans expressed disappointment and anger, questioning Soon’s intentions and commitment to his career. Comments included, “It’s gross to do this on an account your fans follow,” and “Why did you say you would work harder during your birthday cafe event if this was your dream?”

In response, Nam Seung Hyun apologized for the controversy, clarifying that he did not have a girlfriend during “Fantasy Boys” and met his current partner after his contract with the agency ended. He emphasized their serious relationship and asked fans to avoid speculating excessively about his girlfriend. Despite the backlash, Soon expressed gratitude for the support he received from fans, which helped him through challenging times.

Soon issues a statement

“Hello, this is Nam Seung Hyun.

I apologize for causing concern to the fans regarding the current controversy. I would like to address the situation and the misunderstandings.

Firstly, during the filming of ‘Fantasy Boys’, I did not have a girlfriend. I was genuinely dedicated to the program, dreaming of becoming an idol again. I worked hard, motivated by the love and support from the fans, and I tried to reciprocate that love.

He continued: “Currently, my contract with the agency has ended. I am now a regular person who no longer dreams of becoming an idol. I met my girlfriend after the program ended, and we are seriously discussing marriage. I hope you can refrain from making excessive speculations about my girlfriend, who is a regular person like myself.”

“As a trainee, I thought it was necessary to inform the fans that my contract with the agency had ended and that I was no longer pursuing the dream of becoming an idol. I believed it was a responsible situation. Due to my mistake of not mentioning my girlfriend, it has led to the current situation. I apologize for the disappointment,” he added.

“Thank you for your support until now. Your support helped me endure tough times,” he concluded.

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