Category: LATEST STORIES

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ILLIT Wonhee Walks in Crutches at the Airport

ILLIT’s Wonhee was recently seen as she walks in crutches at the airport, sparking concern among fans. Despite her situation, she smiled and waved, engaging warmly with reporters and photographers.

ILLIT Fans Raise Concerns as Wonhee Walks in Crutches at the Airport

The latest update on Wonhee using crutches has heightened concern, as fans worry about her continuing to travel overseas despite her injury. Not surprisingly, netizens immediately spoke up in the idol’s defense, claiming that the ILLIT member needs to rest so she can heal properly.

On June 14, BELIFT LAB announced that Wonhee had injured her ankle earlier in the week. They confirmed that a doctor had advised her to wear a brace and “minimize any excessive movement.” This precaution is essential to ensure her full recovery and prevent further strain on the injured ankle.

Despite the injury, Wonhee demonstrated her dedication by joining the rest of ILLIT at the 2024 Weverse Con Festival. However, to avoid aggravating her condition, she remained seated and did not participate in the choreography. The adjustment allowed her to be present and support her group while prioritizing her health. Fans admired her commitment and resilience, expressing their hope for her swift recovery.

BELIFT LAB also stated that Wonhee’s participation in the rest of ILLIT’s upcoming activities will be adjusted based on her condition and recovery. They emphasized their commitment to Wonhee’s well-being and indicated that her involvement in future events will be carefully monitored and adapted as necessary to ensure she heals properly. This approach aims to balance her professional commitments with her health needs, reflecting the agency’s dedication to the well-being of their artists.

Fans have shown an outpouring of support for Wonhee, sending messages of encouragement and well wishes. Many have taken to social media to express their concern and to commend her for her professionalism and determination. The incident has highlighted the physical demands placed on K-pop idols and the importance of health and well-being in the industry.

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Illustrator Accuses HYBE of Referencing Her Artwork for SYNDI8

An illustrator has publicly accused HYBE of using her artwork as a reference for their new virtual idol group SYNDI8 without proper permission. The artist revealed that although the company initially contacted her for the project, they had since cut communication with her.

Illustrator Claims SYNDI8 References Her Artwork

According to the illustrator, an official from HYBE initially reached out via social media to discuss a potential collaboration for the group’s artwork. However, the communication abruptly ceased, leaving the collaboration unresolved.

The illustrator only became aware of the similarities between her work and the artwork for HYBE’s SYNDI8 when her fans began inquiring if she had collaborated with the label. Noticing the striking resemblances, she realized her work had likely been used without her consent.

Taking to her Instagram page, the artist shared her grievances, posting a capture of the direct message she received from the HYBE official. In her post, she detailed how the discussion had started with potential collaboration plans but ended abruptly without any explanation. She expressed her disappointment and frustration, highlighting the striking similarities between her original work and the SYNDI8 artwork, which fans had brought to her attention.

“This year, I received an inquiry from a subsidiary of H Corporation regarding designs for a virtual girl group. When I provided a detailed quote and additional information, the designer cut off all communication without any response, which I found very unpleasant.”

“Today, HYBE announced their new virtual group, and many people around me assumed I had worked on it, sending me images. It felt strange. If you look at the third image, the original unique sketch style they had shown me is completely gone, and the art style has changed entirely. But my fans thought I collaborated on this project.”

“They showed me their concept but never commissioned me. The final result is completely different from the original sketches and strangely similar to my style. This must be a coincidence, right? Did they work hard to trace and use the eyedropper tool, or did they heavily reference my work?”

The artist’s accusations have sparked a conversation about the importance of respecting intellectual property and the ethical considerations of using an artist’s work without permission. Fans and fellow artists have shown their support for the illustrator, calling for transparency and accountability from HYBE. The incident underscores the need for proper communication and consent in artistic collaborations, especially in an industry as influential as K-pop.

For now, HYBE has not yet responded to the illustrator’s accusations about referencing her artwork for SYNDI8. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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IVE Drops ‘Summer Festa’ MV for 2024 Pepsi Campaign

IVE is back with an exciting new collaboration! This time, the girl group is participating in the 2024 Pepsi campaign for their latest release!

IVE Kicks Off 2024 Pepsi Campaign with ‘SUMMER FESTA’ MV

On June 28 at 6 p.m. KST, IVE unveiled their single “SUMMER FESTA” as part of the 2024 Pepsi Campaign, along with a vibrant music video that perfectly captures the essence of the season.

“SUMMER FESTA” is a refreshing disco-pop track that features funky guitar riffs and a groovy bassline, making it an ideal anthem for the summer months. The song exudes a lively and upbeat vibe, designed to get listeners dancing and celebrating the joy of the season.

Lyrically, “SUMMER FESTA” underscores IVE’s core themes of confidence, self-assurance, and independence in love. The track encourages listeners to act honestly and follow their hearts, with empowering lines such as “Act honestly, follow your heart,” “Every moment is a delightful challenge,” and “I’ll seize the opportunities with my own hands.” These lyrics resonate with the group’s identity, portraying a message of embracing one’s true self and taking control of one’s destiny.

Summer Fun with IVE and Pepsi

The music video for “SUMMER FESTA” complements the song’s energetic and positive message. It showcases the members of IVE in a series of colorful and dynamic settings, embodying the spirit of summer festivals. The visuals are filled with bright, bold colors and playful choreography, capturing the carefree and joyful atmosphere that the song aims to convey. Each member of IVE shines in the video, displaying their charisma and charm while promoting a message of unity and fun.

This collaboration with Pepsi highlights IVE’s growing influence and appeal, as they continue to captivate audiences with their music and powerful messages. The release of “SUMMER FESTA” not only adds another hit to IVE’s discography but also enhances their presence in the global music scene.

Fans of IVE and new listeners alike are sure to enjoy “SUMMER FESTA,” with its infectious melody and uplifting lyrics providing the perfect soundtrack for the summer. This partnership with Pepsi further solidifies IVE’s position as a leading force in the K-pop industry, and their latest single is poised to become a seasonal favorite.

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ONEUS In Discussion To Return For ‘Road To Kingdom’ Season 2

It looks like ONEUS is preparing for a comeback, but it’s not what you think! The boy group has just been confirmed to be in talks to return for ‘Road to Kingdom’ Season 2!

Will ONEUS Return in ‘Road to Kingdom’ Season 2?

On June 28, it was reported that ONEUS might be making a return to the popular Mnet survival show “Road to Kingdom.” This exciting news follows the group’s initial participation in the first season of the show back in 2020.

In response to the report, an Mnet official confirmed that discussions regarding ONEUS’s participation in the new season of “Road to Kingdom” are underway and being positively evaluated. The potential return to the show would come approximately four years after their first appearance, where they impressed audiences with their dynamic performances and creative stage concepts.

The upcoming season of “Road to Kingdom” promises to be different from its previous iterations. Originally, the show served as a prequel to “Kingdom,” with the winning team securing a spot in the follow-up show. However, this time, “Road to Kingdom” will operate as an independent brand, focusing on spotlighting rising K-pop boy groups and introducing new benefits for the winning team. The rebranding aims to create a fresh and engaging platform for showcasing the talents of emerging groups in the K-pop industry.

Who Will Participate in ‘Road to Kingdom 2’?

In May, it was reported that other groups such as CRAVITY, xikers, THE NEW SIX, 8TURN, YOUNITE, ATBO, and TEMPEST might join the lineup for the new season. While these reports have yet to be confirmed, the potential participation of ONEUS adds to the anticipation and excitement surrounding the show’s return.

“Road to Kingdom” Season 2 is set to air in the second half of the year, and fans are eagerly awaiting confirmation of the final lineup and further details about the show. For ONEUS, returning to “Road to Kingdom” could be a significant opportunity to showcase their growth and evolution as artists since their last appearance. Their potential participation is sure to draw attention and excitement from their dedicated fanbase and K-pop enthusiasts alike.

As the discussions continue and the lineup is finalized, fans can look forward to an exciting season of “Road to Kingdom,” filled with intense competition, impressive performances, and the discovery of new K-pop talents.

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Seventeen Travels from Paris to London by Train

The K-pop group navigates an unexpected travel change and enthusiastic fans

SEVENTEEN recently experienced an unexpected twist in their travel plans. After their flight from Paris to London was cancelled, the 13-member boy group had to switch to taking a train. Despite the sudden change, SEVENTEEN faced a mobbing situation at the station, showcasing their calm personalities and dedication to fans.

On June 28, SEVENTEEN’s travel plans were disrupted by a cancelled flight, forcing them to take a train journey instead. The news of their change in itinerary did not go unnoticed by their dedicated fanbase, CARATs. Upon arrival at the station, the group was greeted by a large crowd of enthusiastic fans eager to see their idols. The station became a frenzy as fans flocked to catch a glimpse of SEVENTEEN, creating a chaotic scene that required security personnel to be on high alert to ensure everyone’s safety.

Despite the overwhelming situation, SEVENTEEN managed to navigate through the crowd with grace. The members smiled and waved at their supporters, acknowledging their presence and showing appreciation. This positive interaction highlighted SEVENTEEN’s strong connection with their fans and ability to stay composed under pressure.

Seventeen as Goodwill Ambassadors

On June 26, SEVENTEEN was honored as the first-ever Goodwill Ambassador for Youth by UNESCO at their Paris headquarters. This historic recognition, presented by UNESCO’s Director-General Audrey Azoulay, emphasized SEVENTEEN’s role in promoting global youth engagement and cultural exchange. During the ceremony, Joshua delivered a heartfelt speech on behalf of the group, highlighting their commitment to inspiring positive change through their GoingTogether campaign. Additionally, SEVENTEEN announced a generous $1 million donation to UNESCO’s Global Youth Grand Scheme, supporting initiatives that foster positive youth communities worldwide.

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K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES VARIETY

“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” Excites Viewers For 3 Reasons

“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” is set to return with a fresh season that promises more excitement and heartwarming moments. This show will explore the inner workings of a Korean restaurant led by a dedicated boss and passionate employees. Here are three reasons to look forward to the new season:

An exciting taste of Korea in Iceland

This season, the restaurant opens its doors in the chilly climes of Iceland. Boss Lee Seo Jin, accompanied by Jung Yu Mi, Park Seo Joon, Choi Woo Shik, and new staff member Go Min Si, will serve up steaming hot gomtang, a traditional Korean beef bone soup. The aim is to not only warm the cold but also melt the hearts of their customers. Despite concerns about slow business due to the cold weather, the restaurant experiences a surprising influx of guests. The continuous flow of customers and long waiting lines astonish the staff, creating an impressive scene and setting the stage for record-breaking sales.

The cast welcomes Go Min Si as an intern

This season introduces major changes in employee roles. CEO Lee Seo Jin makes bold decisions, promoting Jung Yu Mi to managing director, Park Seo Joon to director, and longtime intern Choi Woo Shik to assistant manager. These changes spark curiosity about how they will adapt to their new roles. Additionally, a new intern, Go Min Si, adds to the excitement. Known for her diverse background and professional experience, Go Min Si quickly earns the respect of her colleagues with her proactive attitude and efficient work. Her interactions with the existing team promise to heighten viewer enjoyment with their fresh chemistry.

“Customer is King” is their new philosophy

Lee Seo Jin’s management approach undergoes a complete transformation in Iceland. Shifting from a “sales are king” philosophy to a “customer-first” approach, he treats guests with the utmost respect. This new management style is a key highlight of the season, showcasing his dedication to providing an exceptional dining experience. The rotating head chef system adds to the excitement, where Jung Yu Mi, Park Seo Joon, and Choi Woo Shik take turns leading the kitchen. Each chef brings unique style and secret culinary delights, ensuring a diverse and delightful dining experience.

“Jinny’s Kitchen 2” has new locations, roles, and flavors, promising a delightful viewing experience. Don’t miss out on the heartwarming and delicious adventures this season offers.

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Rain and Kim Ha Neul’s Hidden Feelings in Red Swan

Rain uncovers dark secrets with Kim Ha Neul

Disney+ has revealed new stills from its highly anticipated drama “Red Swan.” The show will follow the intriguing story of Oh Wan Soo (played by Kim Ha Neul), a former golfer who steps into the high-stakes world of high society by marrying the heir of Hwain Group. Her life takes a perilous turn as she becomes embroiled in a fierce succession battle, leading her to discover the family’s dark secrets with the help of her bodyguard, Seo Do Yoon (played by Rain).

Seo Do Yoon saves Wan Soo from a mysterious terrorist attack and then infiltrates the Hwain family as her bodyguard, determined to uncover their secrets. As they confront these hidden dangers together, their bond deepens, and they find themselves increasingly reliant on each other. The palpable tension between them heightens expectations for their captivating chemistry. Wan Soo stands firm in her beliefs amidst the greed and power struggles of the Hwain Group, while Do Yoon is prepared to risk everything to protect her. Their mutual effort to suppress their growing feelings adds a poignant layer to their relationship, leaving viewers eager to see how it will evolve.

What to expect in the season premiere

On June 14, 2024, Red Swan’s teaser was released, featuring lead actors Rain and Kim Ha Neul. In the teaser, Rain is shown as a cold and calculating bodyguard who takes his job seriously, going to great lengths to ensure his client’s safety. Meanwhile, Kim Ha Neul’s character portrays a bold and resilient woman trying to navigate the chaotic political landscape and deceit surrounding her. The teaser also hints at a dangerous accident involving Wan Soo, with Do Yoon determinedly bringing her to safety, showcasing the lengths he will go to protect her.

“Red Swan” promises an intense and emotional journey as Wan Soo and Do Yoon face life-threatening dangers and grapple with their hidden feelings. The drama’s intriguing plot and the undeniable chemistry between the leads are sure to captivate viewers.

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BTS V Serve Boyfriend Looks in Upcoming PhotoBook Type 1

BTS V is gearing up for the release of his eagerly awaited photobook, TYPE 1. Ahead of the exciting revelation, he has unveiled a new concept poster featuring a variety of previews from the upcoming collection.

BTS V releases concept poster #2 for photobook “Type 1”

BTS V has once again captivated fans with a sneak peek into his upcoming photobook, TYPE 1. On June 28, V revealed a second concept poster, which includes a stunning collage of photos that will be featured in the photobook. The images range from shirtless shots to his adorable, well-loved smile, perfectly capturing his ‘boyfriend-material’ persona.

TYPE 1, the photobook, and its accompanying magazine are highly anticipated releases from BIGHIT MUSIC. They shared that V took a brief hiatus from his busy schedule to embark on a special trip, choosing the location himself to ensure this project would be a memorable gift for his fans. V was deeply involved in every aspect of the creation, from naming the photobook to selecting its components.

The 224-page photobook offers a glimpse into V’s comfort moments, including sweet scenes with his beloved pet dog, Yeontan. The photobook will officially launch on July 9, with pre-orders starting on June 27. Fans have already been treated to previews of V’s  shirtless photos, which are quickly becoming fans’ favorites.

What’s keeping V busy?

In addition to preparing for the photobook release, V has been busy with his music career. His latest single, “FRI(END)S,” has topped global charts and set new records on various music platforms. Currently, V is fulfilling his mandatory military service, having enlisted on December 11, 2023. He is expected to complete his service by June 2025, alongside his fellow bandmate RM.

As fans eagerly await the release of TYPE 1, it’s clear that V’s dedication and effort have paid off, promising a photobook that will be cherished by the ARMYs worldwide.

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HYBE Shares Update On Legal Proceedings For NewJeans Against Malicious Activities

HYBE has provided updates on the legal proceedings for NewJeans and their other artists against those who engage in malicious actions.

HYBE’s Latest Statement Shares Update on Legal Proceedings for NewJeans Against Ill-Natured Activities

On June 28, HYBE provided a comprehensive update on the ongoing legal proceedings aimed at protecting their artists, including NewJeans, from malicious actions.

In their statement, HYBE also highlighted the progress of these legal actions against activities that infringe upon the rights of NewJeans members. These activities encompass a wide range of offenses such as defamation, personal attacks, sexual harassment, spreading false information, ill-intentioned criticism, and the use of pejorative names. HYBE also emphasized their unwavering stance, stating that “there will be no leniency or settlement under any circumstances in the legal proceedings regarding the artist’s rights.”

This robust approach underscores HYBE’s commitment to safeguarding their artists from harmful and damaging behavior. They aim to set a precedent that such actions will not be tolerated and will be met with serious legal consequences.

NewJeans is not the only group under HYBE’s protection in these matters. Other HYBE artists, including BTS, TXT, SEVENTEEN, fromis_9, Hwang Minhyun, Baekho, TWS, and BOYNEXTDOOR, have also issued statements about the ongoing legal measures against those who engage in similar malicious activities. Each artist has expressed their determination to ensure their rights and well-being are protected.

HYBE’s proactive stance in addressing these issues also reflects their broader commitment to fostering a safe and respectful environment for their artists. By taking legal action, they aim to deter future offenses and support the mental and emotional health of their artists, ensuring they can continue their careers without being subjected to harmful and unwarranted behavior. This update also serves as a reminder to the public and fans alike that HYBE will continue to prioritize the safety and rights of their artists, maintaining zero tolerance for any form of malicious activity.

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LE SSERAFIM Preparing for August Comeback

On June 28, Source Music officially confirmed that LE SSERAFIM is gearing up for a highly anticipated comeback, aiming for a release towards the end of August. This announcement comes amidst growing excitement from fans and industry observers alike, eagerly awaiting the group’s return after a six-month hiatus since their last release, the third mini album “EASY” in February.

The news was initially reported by SPOTV News, sparking speculation and anticipation within the K-pop community about what LE SSERAFIM has in store for their upcoming comeback. Source Music, the agency managing LE SSERAFIM, emphasized that while preparations are underway, they will provide more details, including the precise comeback date, in due course.

LE SSERAFIM, known for their distinct style and captivating performances, has steadily built a dedicated fanbase since their debut. With each release, they have showcased versatility and growth, contributing to their rising popularity in the competitive K-pop industry. As anticipation mounts, fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the concept, music style, and overall direction of their new release.

The timing of LE SSERAFIM’s comeback towards the end of August suggests strategic planning by Source Music to maximize visibility and impact in the music scene. As they prepare to unveil new music, expectations are high for the group to deliver another memorable and successful comeback, further solidifying their position in the industry.

As fans await further announcements and teasers leading up to the comeback, the buzz surrounding LE SSERAFIM continues to grow, reflecting the group’s influence and the anticipation for what promises to be a significant moment in their career. Stay tuned for more updates as LE SSERAFIM prepares to captivate audiences once again with their music and performance prowess.

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