Category: LATEST STORIES

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LOONA Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol and Choerry Win Contract Lawsuit Vs Blockberry Creative

LOONA’s Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry have successfully won their exclusive contract lawsuit against Blockberry Creative.

Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry vs Blockberry Creative

On June 21, the 11th Civil Division of the Seoul Northern District Court ruled in favor of the four members in their civil lawsuit filed in March 2023. Initially, the lawsuit progressed without Blockberry Creative’s response, but the label eventually engaged, and court hearings began in December 2023.

Prior to this ruling, Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry had secured a temporary injunction that suspended the effects of their exclusive contracts. The injunction freed them from restrictions on their entertainment activities, allowing them to continue their careers without Blockberry Creative’s interference. Following this, the four members joined a new agency, Modu House, and debuted as part of the reformed group ARTMS, which also includes Haesol, bringing the group to five members.

LOONA originally debuted in 2018 as a 12-member group, but internal disputes, particularly involving member Chuu, led to significant changes. Chuu faced financial settlement issues with Blockberry Creative, prompting her to pursue legal action. She won her first and second trials to dissolve her exclusive contract, although Blockberry Creative has appealed, and the final decision is pending from the Supreme Court.

These legal battles have led to a practical disbandment of LOONA, with several members pursuing legal action to suspend their contracts. The successful lawsuit by Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsol, and Choerry marks a significant development in the ongoing conflict between LOONA members and Blockberry Creative.

This victory not only liberates the members from their restrictive contracts but also sets a precedent for other K-Pop artists facing similar issues. It highlights the growing awareness and assertiveness among idols regarding fair treatment and contractual rights within the industry. Fans of LOONA and the newly formed Artemis can now look forward to more unencumbered activities from these talented artists.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

NewJeans Hanni Goes Viral with Adorable Photocards

NewJeans have done something right by releasing an album with set photocards. However, it looks like one member is getting more attention for her cute poses! Hanni’s adorable photocards are gaining attention, and fans are glad that they don’t have to purchase numerous albums to get one!

NewJeans Member Hanni Goes Viral for Adorable Photocards

These days, most K-Pop albums come with random photocards of the group members. While this practice adds an element of excitement for fans, it has also sparked controversy due to its implications. The practice encourages mass buying of albums, leading to excessive waste and artificially inflating K-Pop album sales numbers. Fans often buy multiple copies of the same album in hopes of collecting all the photocards, resulting in stacks of unwanted duplicates and environmental concerns.

In this context, it’s a refreshing surprise when a K-Pop group releases an album with set photocards, ensuring that fans know exactly what they’re getting. This approach not only reduces waste but also allows fans to enjoy the complete set without the pressure of buying multiple copies. NewJeans’ recent album is a prime example of this, much to the delight of their fanbase.

However, the excitement around NewJeans’ album isn’t just about the set photocards. The photocards of member Hanni have gone viral online due to their undeniable cuteness. Fans have been particularly captivated by Hanni’s short hairstyle, which is actually a wig. Since debuting the look last month, it has become a sensation within the NewJeans fandom. Hanni’s continued use of the wig for the group’s multiple single albums highlights its popularity.

The buzz around Hanni’s photocards is evident on social media, where tweets showcasing her new look have garnered significant attention. Some tweets have amassed as many as 2.4 million views and over 60k likes. This viral reaction underscores the impact of thoughtful album packaging and member styling in K-Pop.

By offering set photocards and leveraging popular looks, NewJeans not only cater to their fans’ desires but also set a positive example for sustainable practices in the industry. This strategy fosters deeper fan engagement while addressing environmental concerns, proving that thoughtful marketing can benefit both fans and the planet.

NewJeans recently dropped their single “Supernatural” on June 21, 2024.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Former C9 Entertainment Employees Expose Company in Scathing Reviews

C9 Entertainment—home to artists like Younha, CIX, and EPEX—is facing significant criticism for allegedly mismanaging its business operations. This scrutiny has been amplified by the actions of CIX fans, who have taken to social media to expose the company’s internal issues. Now, former C9 Entertainment employees are exposing the agency with scathing reviews posted on the internet.

Former C9 Entertainment Employees Speak Out Against Company

A CIX fan recently shared screenshots on Twitter from Job Planet, a workplace review website akin to Glassdoor. These screenshots contained negative reviews from former C9 Entertainment employees, painting a grim picture of the company’s internal workings. The reviews suggest a troubling work environment, raising questions about the company’s ability to support its artists effectively. These posts are part of the #TreatCIXBetter movement, which aims to hold C9 Entertainment accountable for what fans perceive as a lack of adequate support for CIX.

The reviews have led K-pop fans to question whether C9 Entertainment should continue discovering and promoting new talent. Despite these concerns, the company also announced in April 2024 that a new multicultural boy group is set to debut in late 2025, with lead roles in a TBS K-Drama. This ambitious plan has also been met with skepticism given the company’s current controversies and apparent internal issues.

Adding to the turmoil, C9 Entertainment faced backlash from viewers and fans after an episode of the YouTube show “No Bbaku Tak Jae Hoon” made inappropriate comments about Jeewon. The show implied that she would be fit for porn, also sparking outrage. C9 Entertainment’s response to the controversy also did little to appease Cignature fans, further tarnishing the company’s reputation.

These incidents have combined to put C9 Entertainment under intense scrutiny. Fans and industry observers alike are also calling for the company to address its internal issues and provide better support for its artists. The situation also highlights the broader challenges within the K-pop industry regarding artist management and the importance of maintaining a supportive and professional environment for all involved.

Categories
K-DRAMA KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

EXO-CBX’s ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ OST MV Hits 100M Views

EXO-CBX’s “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo” OST track “For You” has achieved a remarkable milestone on YouTube! The music video for the beloved song has just reached 100 million views!

EXO-CBX ‘Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo’ OST Track Gets 100 Million Views

As of June 22 at approximately 10 p.m. KST, the music video for “For You”—sung by Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin—surpassed 100 million views. This milestone was reached about 7 years, 9 months, and 28 days after the video’s initial release on August 25, 2016.

“For You” is a beloved song from the soundtrack of the hit 2016 drama “Moon Lovers: Scarlet Heart Ryeo,” which featured EXO’s Baekhyun along with IU, Lee Joon-gi, and Kang Ha-neul. The drama tells the story of a 21st-century woman who time travels to the Goryeo Dynasty, becoming entangled in the power struggles and romantic entanglements of the royal family.

EXO-CBX’s Legal Fight

In related news, the EXO-CBX members—Baekhyun, Chen, and Xiumin—are currently involved in a legal dispute with SM Entertainment, their management agency. The conflict arose over allegations of unfair profit distribution, with the members accusing SM Entertainment of failing to honor an agreed-upon 5.5 percent music distribution fee for INB100. This issue led the idols to announce their intention to sue the agency.

In response, SM Entertainment has counterclaimed that EXO-CBX voluntarily terminated their exclusive contracts ahead of schedule, adding complexity to the ongoing legal battle. The dispute has also captured the attention of fans and the broader entertainment industry, highlighting the ongoing challenges and negotiations between K-pop artists and their management companies.

The milestone achievement of “For You” on YouTube also serves as a reminder of the enduring popularity and impact of EXO-CBX’s music, even amidst their current legal issues. Fans continue to show their support for Chen, Baekhyun, and Xiumin, celebrating their musical successes while also backing them in their fight for fair treatment.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

2AM Changmin Signs with Major Nine

2AM’s Changmin has signed an exclusive contract with Major Nine, marking an exciting new chapter in his career.

2AM Member Changmin Signs Exclusive Contract with Major Nine

On June 21, Major Nine announced the signing, stating, “We’re pleased to embark on a new journey with Lee Changmin, who possesses both singing and songwriting abilities. We plan to fully support his various music activities and performances.”

Changmin himself shared his enthusiasm, saying, “I’m greatly looking forward to new beginnings in a new place. I will enjoy creating diverse activities with the Major Nine family, including music, broadcasts, and more.” This statement reflects his readiness to explore new opportunities and further his artistic expression under the new label.

The news comes shortly after fellow 2AM member Jo Kwon left CUBE Entertainment last week.

Changmin debuted with the vocal group 2AM in 2008, quickly gaining popularity for their emotional ballads and impressive vocal harmonies. The group delivered hit songs like “This Song”, “Won’t Let You Go Even if I Die”, “I Was Wrong”, and “You Wouldn’t Answer My Calls”, cementing their place in the K-pop industry.

In addition to his work with 2AM, Changmin also promoted as part of the male duo Homme, alongside Lee Hyun. This collaboration showcased his versatility and ability to adapt to different musical styles. Homme released well-received tracks that further highlighted Changmin’s vocal prowess and musicality.

With his new contract at Major Nine, fans can anticipate a fresh wave of music and performances from Changmin. The support from Major Nine is expected to provide him with the resources and platform to explore a wide range of creative endeavors, from solo music projects to potential television appearances. As Changmin embarks on this new journey, his loyal fans are undoubtedly excited to see what he will achieve next, looking forward to the evolution of his already impressive career.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

AB6IX Cancels Madrid And Milan Concerts

AB6IX has decided to cancel their Madrid and Milan concerts. The announcement was made just a few days before their scheduled fan concerts next week!

AB6IX Announces Madrid and Milan Concerts Cancellation

On June 22, concert promoter LiveAct issued a statement regarding AB6IX’s ‘Find You’ fan concert tour. It was confirmed that the Madrid and Milan concerts will be cancelled.

“We are extremely sorry to announce this so close to the show dates, and we understand how disappointing and frustrating this news must be. We are truly sorry for any inconvenience this may cause,” it read.

The statement also clarifies that the other schedules will continue as planned.

“Not to worry, shows in Paris and London on June 28th and 29th will proceed as scheduled,” it continued. “We hope to see you there! We also want to assure you that the North America tour in July will take place as planned.”

“Thank you for your continued support during this difficult time. We appreciate your patience and understanding,” the statement concluded.

On April 25, AB6IX revealed the dates for their upcoming 2024 ‘Find You’ fan concert tour, covering South Korea and North America. The tour began with a two-date performance at the KBS Arena in Seoul, South Korea, on May 25 and 26, 2024.

In July, the boyband will embark on the North American leg of their tour, performing across the US, Canada, and Mexico. The tour will kick off with shows in Toronto and Montreal on July 3 and 5, respectively. Following these, AB6IX will head to New York City to perform at the Racket NYC venue. They will then travel to Mexico City for a single show at the Auditorio BB.

The tour will continue throughout July with performances in various cities, including Miami, Los Angeles, and Denver. This extensive tour marks an exciting opportunity for North American fans to experience AB6IX live, showcasing their dynamic performances and connecting with their international fanbase.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BLACKPINK Lisa Drops Stunning ‘ROCKSTAR’ Concept Images

Lisa is hyping up her upcoming solo comeback! The BLACKPINK member just dropped stunning ‘ROCKSTAR’ concept images!

Lisa Stuns in New ‘ROCKSTAR’ Concept Images

BLACKPINK’s Lisa has just posted a striking new concept photo for her upcoming release ‘ROCKSTAR.’ The latest image continues the edgy, stylish concept she introduced with the first teaser, showcasing Lisa’s stunning beauty and intriguing new look. Fans are excited, eagerly anticipating her latest project’s direction and style.

‘ROCKSTAR’ marks Lisa’s first solo release since establishing her own agency, LLOUD. This move signifies a significant step in her career, allowing her greater creative freedom and control over her music. The anticipation surrounding ‘ROCKSTAR’ is palpable, with fans worldwide curious to see how Lisa will leverage her new independence to craft her solo identity.

In addition to her musical endeavors, Lisa is set to expand her artistic repertoire by appearing in “The White Lotus” Season 3.

Lisa’s Many Solo Ventures

Joining the cast of HBO’s critically acclaimed drama, Lisa is also poised to make a memorable impression on audiences. The series is renowned for its intricate storytelling and compelling character arcs, providing an excellent platform for Lisa to showcase her acting skills. Her participation in “The White Lotus” not only highlights her versatility as an artist but also expands her presence in the global entertainment industry.

Set to be released on June 28, the digital single ‘ROCKSTAR’ promises to be a significant milestone in Lisa’s solo career. The combination of her bold new concept and the creative freedom also afforded by her new agency suggests that ‘ROCKSTAR’ will be a unique and captivating release. Fans also eagerly await both the single and her upcoming role in “The White Lotus,” anticipating that Lisa’s multifaceted talents will continue to shine in new and exciting ways.

With ‘ROCKSTAR,’ Lisa is also set to cement her status as a formidable solo artist while expanding her influence in the acting world. Her ability to continuously reinvent herself and take on new challenges also underscores her position as one of the most dynamic and influential figures in the entertainment industry today.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

GOT7 Youngjae Teases Solo Comeback with ‘T.P.O’ Concept Images

Youngjae is gearing up for a highly anticipated comeback, much to the delight of his fans. The GOT7 member just dropped simple “T.P.O” concept images.

Youngjae Confirms Comeback with ‘T.P.O’ Concept Images

On June 22 at midnight KST, Youngjae made a surprise announcement, revealing his upcoming digital single “T.P.O” along with a set of fresh teaser images. Scheduled for release on July 9 at 6 p.m. KST, this new single marks his return approximately eight months after his first full-length album, “Do It.”

While Youngjae is focused on his solo comeback, there are exciting hints that he might soon reunite with his fellow GOT7 members.

A GOT7 Comeback?

In a recent interview with WOODY FM, fellow GOT7 member BamBam confirmed the group’s highly anticipated return and shared intriguing details about their forthcoming album. BamBam’s revelation that the album is already completed was a pleasant surprise to fans, indicating that the members have been diligently working on new music during their hiatus.

BamBam’s explanation of the collaborative song selection process offered insight into the group’s creative dynamics, highlighting the individual contributions of each member to the album. This process underscores the members’ commitment to GOT7’s collective identity and sound, as they chose to reserve certain songs for the group rather than pursue them as solo projects.

Moreover, BamBam’s playful comment about Jay B and Jinyoung needing to grow out their hair after military service added a touch of humor to the announcement, showcasing his charming personality and strong rapport with fans. This lighthearted remark further endeared fans to the group and heightened their anticipation for GOT7’s comeback.

Youngjae’s solo activities, coupled with the exciting news about GOT7’s return, create a sense of eagerness and enthusiasm among fans. As they eagerly await the release of “T.P.O” and the group’s new album, the dedication and teamwork of the GOT7 members continue to shine, promising a thrilling and memorable comeback for both Youngjae and the group as a whole.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

Lee Je Hoon Shares Exciting ‘Signal 2’ Update

Lee Je Hoon recently discussed the eagerly awaited sequel to his 2016 drama. The actor has just dropped an exciting “Signal 2” update, stirring excitement among fans.

Lee Je Hoon Hypes Up Fans with ‘Signal 2’ Update

In an interview on June 20, while promoting his upcoming film “Runaway,” Lee was questioned about his forthcoming projects, including “Taxi Driver 3” and “Signal 2.” Although both dramas are highly anticipated, “Signal 2” has generated more buzz, as fans have been waiting eight years for its release.

During the interview, Lee Je Hoon shared his thoughts on “Signal 2.” He revealed that the script is currently in progress and that the initial parts have left a strong impression on him. He confidently stated that the sequel would make viewers realize that scriptwriter Kim Eun Hee has truly outdone herself this time. His comments have further heightened expectations for the drama, which originally captivated audiences with its gripping storyline and complex characters.

“The script isn’t finished, and I only saw the initial parts, but I was amazed by how she could write it like that. I think this project will show things beyond anyone’s imagination and then beyond that,” he said.

Meanwhile, Lee Je Hoon is set to return to the big screen with “Runaway,” which is scheduled for release on July 3. The film is anticipated to showcase his versatile acting skills, adding another significant project to his impressive portfolio. As fans eagerly await both “Signal 2” and “Taxi Driver 3,” Lee’s remarks have only intensified the anticipation for his future works.

 

The original “Signal” series, known for its innovative blend of crime, thriller, and supernatural elements, was a critical and commercial success. With Lee Je Hoon’s enthusiastic endorsement of the sequel’s script, expectations are high for “Signal 2” to deliver an equally compelling narrative. As the release date for “Runaway” approaches, fans can look forward to seeing Lee Je Hoon’s return to the screen and his continued contribution to the world of Korean drama and film.

Categories
FEATURES K-DRAMA LATEST STORIES

‘Sweet Home 3’ First Teaser Hints at Shocking Finale

Netflix has unveiled the first teaser trailer for ‘Sweet Home’ Season 3, sparking excitement among fans of the hit series. Not surprisingly, the small glimpse at the third season also promises a truly shocking finale for the survivors!

‘Sweet Home’ Season 3 Hypes up Shocking Finale

The final season promises to escalate the tension and drama as survivors navigate a world divided between those who embrace the dawn of a new humanity and those who still fear the infected. Central to this conflict is Hyun Soo, portrayed by Song Kang, who is also set to confront his most formidable adversary yet.

The anticipation for “Sweet Home” Season 3 is palpable, with fans eagerly awaiting the continuation of the story. The series has garnered acclaim for its unique blend of horror, suspense, and emotional depth, distinguishing it within the genre. Viewers can also look forward to more intense battles, surprising alliances, and profound character development as the survivors face both internal and external threats.

What To Expect in ‘Sweet Home 3’

Returning to reprise their roles are Song Kang, Lee Jin Wook, Lee Si Young, Go Min Si, Lee Do Hyun, and Jinyoung, who will continue to bring their characters to life in the concluding chapter of the series. The teaser trailer hints at the high stakes and emotional turmoil that lie ahead, promising a gripping and satisfying conclusion to the beloved series.

Fans can expect “Sweet Home” Season 3 to delve deeper into the psyches of the characters, exploring their fears, motivations, and the lengths they are willing to go to survive. The series’ hallmark has been its ability to combine thrilling action with heartfelt moments, and the final season aims to deliver on both fronts. The clash between those who see the infected as the future and those who see them as a threat will drive the narrative to new heights, also offering a compelling exploration of humanity’s resilience and adaptability in the face of unimaginable horror.

“Sweet Home” Season 3 is set to premiere on July 19, exclusively on Netflix, concluding the epic saga that has captivated audiences worldwide. With the teaser trailer raising expectations, fans are also counting down the days to see how the story of Hyun Soo and his fellow survivors will come to an end.

Exit mobile version