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FNC Entertainment Announces CHERRY BULLET Disbandment

The announcement of the CHERRY BULLET disbandment, delivered by their agency FNC Entertainment on April 22, reverberated through the K-pop community, leaving fans with a mix of emotions ranging from shock to sadness.

CHERRY BULLET Disbandment Announcement Shocks Fans

The statement expressed gratitude to Lullet, Cherry Bullet’s devoted fan club, for their unwavering support and love throughout the group’s journey.

Amidst heartfelt appreciation, the announcement outlined the decision reached after extensive deliberation and discussions between Cherry Bullet’s members and their agency. Haeyoon, Jiwon, Remi, and May opted for contract termination, signifying the end of their official group activities. Meanwhile, Yuju, Bora, and Chaerin made the decision to pursue individual paths within FNC Entertainment, signaling a new chapter in their respective careers.

The news came as a poignant moment for fans who had followed Cherry Bullet’s trajectory since their debut in January 2019 with the catchy anthem “Q&A.” Over the years, the group had endeared themselves to audiences with their infectious energy, distinctive charm, and memorable performances. Their most recent comeback in March 2023 with “P.O.W! (Play On the World)” served as a testament to their talent and creativity.

As fans grapple with the reality of the Cherry Bullet disbandment, the statement offered solace, urging them to continue supporting the members as they embark on new endeavors. Despite the end of their group activities, the bond forged between Cherry Bullet and their fans will endure, serving as a testament to the profound impact they had on each other’s lives.

The announcement marked the conclusion of one chapter in Cherry Bullet’s story while simultaneously paving the way for new beginnings. Fans around the world joined together in expressing their gratitude for the memories shared and their unwavering support for the members as they navigate the next phase of their careers. Though Cherry Bullet may no longer exist as a group, their legacy lives on through the music, memories, and connections they forged with fans during their time together.

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ADOR Responds to HYBE’s Management Audit on CEO Min Hee Jin

HYBE’s decision to initiate a management audit of its subsidiary label ADOR has sent ripples through the K-pop industry, raising questions about the dynamics between the two entities and the future of their partnership. Since then, ADOR has addressed the label’s plans.

HYBE Initiates Management Audit on ADOR

Despite HYBE holding a controlling 80 percent stake in ADOR, recent developments have highlighted tensions between the label and its parent company. Reports surfaced on April 22 indicating that HYBE had detected efforts by ADOR to assert its independence, prompting concerns within the conglomerate. In response, HYBE took swift action, calling for a shareholders’ meeting to address the situation and hold the ADOR management accountable for their actions.

Founded in 2021 by industry veteran Min Hee Jin, ADOR quickly became synonymous with innovation and creativity, serving as the home for rising stars like NewJeans.

Central to HYBE’s concerns was the composition of ADOR’s leadership, with both current directors having joined the company alongside Min Hee Jin from SM Entertainment. In an effort to exert greater influence and oversight, HYBE sought to appoint an additional director from its own ranks, signaling a shift in power dynamics within the label.

Furthermore, reports circulated that HYBE had issued a document calling for Min Hee Jin’s resignation as CEO of ADOR, further complicating the situation and raising speculation about the future leadership of the label.

ADOR Responds to HYBE’s Plans

In response to these developments, ADOR issued a statement addressing the reports and affirming its commitment to transparency and cooperation with HYBE during the audit process.

“It appears that HYBE and BELIFT LAB along with Chairman Bang Si Hyuk think that simply driving CEO Min Hee Jin out of the company will end this issue without providing proper apologies or measures. However, ADOR will use all possible means and methods to protect the cultural achievements that NewJeans has worked for and to prevent further infringement due to copying. We want to make it clear that we cannot tolerate copying and various unfair actions continuing against ADOR and NewJeans,” it read.

The outcome of this audit and the subsequent actions taken by both parties will undoubtedly shape the future trajectory of ADOR and its relationship with HYBE, underscoring the complexities of navigating the competitive landscape of the K-pop industry.

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Rapper Simon Dominic Leaving AOMG After 10 Years

The departure of Simon Dominic from AOMG marks the end of a significant chapter in both his career and the trajectory of the renowned hip-hop label. Interestingly, the rapper has decided to leave the label after a full decade.

Simon Dominic Confirms AOMG Departure

The news, reported by SPOTV News on April 22, sent shockwaves through the music industry and sparked a wave of speculation regarding the future of both the artist and the agency.

According to statements from an AOMG official, the decision for Simon Dominic to part ways with the label was reached through mutual agreement in February 2024. While the specifics of the termination are still being finalized, both parties are committed to maintaining professionalism and diligence in their respective endeavors during this transitional period.

Simon Dominic’s tenure at AOMG has been characterized by his multifaceted role within the company. Joining the label in 2014, he not only contributed his talents as an artist but also assumed the role of co-CEO alongside Jay Park until 2018.

His leadership and creative vision played a pivotal role in shaping AOMG’s identity and success during those formative years. Following his resignation from the CEO position, Simon Dominic continued to make significant contributions to the label as an artist, solidifying his status as one of its cornerstone figures.

Why is Everyone Leaving AOMG?

With a decade-long history at AOMG, Simon Dominic’s departure marks the end of an era defined by innovation, collaboration, and artistic expression. His impact on the label’s legacy is undeniable, leaving an indelible imprint on the Korean hip-hop scene and inspiring countless artists and fans alike.

Simon Dominic’s decision to leave AOMG comes amidst a series of departures from the label, including notable artists like Gray, Woo Won Jae, Lee Hi, and GooseBumps, who all parted ways earlier in March. While these transitions may signal a period of change and restructuring for AOMG, they also pave the way for new opportunities and growth for both the label and its former artists.

As Simon Dominic embarks on a new chapter in his career, fans eagerly await to see where his artistic journey will take him next, confident that his talent and passion will continue to captivate audiences and leave an enduring legacy in the world of Korean hip-hop.

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BBGIRLS Leave Warner Music Korea as Youjoung Leaves Group

BBGIRLS finds itself at a crossroads as they bid farewell to Warner Music Korea after merely a year under their wing. In addition to that, the group are set to establish their own agency while one member has decided to take her own solo path.

BBGIRLS Announce Departure From Warner Music Korea

The decision, announced through an official statement on April 22, marked the expiration of their contracts with the agency. While this departure marks the end of one chapter, it also signals the beginning of another as the group embarks on a new journey towards autonomy.

In the wake of this transition, member Youjoung has chosen to depart from the group, potentially venturing into a solo career. This significant decision adds a layer of complexity to BBGIRLS’ narrative, sparking curiosity and anticipation among fans regarding Youjoung’s future endeavors.

“We would like to also inform you of sad news,” the secord statement read. “After an in-depth discussion, it was decided that Youjoung will end her activities as a member of BBGIRLS. The members also decided to respect Youjoung’s opinion. We sincerely thank Youjoung for doing her best as a member of BBGIRLS for a long time, and we will continue to support her in the future.”

“BBGIRLS plans to continue activities as a three-member group with Minyoung, Eunji, and Yuna going forward. We would like to express our gratitude to BBee, who always sends us so much love, and we ask for your warm support and interest in BBGIRLS who is making a fresh start,” it continues.

BBGIRLS Facing The Music

Despite these changes, BBGIRLS remains resolute in their commitment to continue their musical journey. In a testament to their determination, the group announced plans to establish their own agency, symbolizing a newfound sense of independence and creative control. However, the endeavor will see BBGIRLS moving forward as a trio, with Youjoung’s departure leaving a void yet also providing an opportunity for the remaining members to explore new dynamics within the group.

BBGIRLS’ trajectory has been marked by both highs and lows, from their initial signing with Brave Entertainment to their subsequent partnership with Warner Music Korea. The release of their double single album “ONE MORE TIME” served as a testament to their talent and potential, garnering attention and acclaim from fans and industry insiders alike.

As BBGIRLS navigates this period of transition, their loyal fanbase stands as a pillar of support, eagerly anticipating the next chapter in their journey. With determination, resilience, and a shared passion for music, BBGIRLS embarks on a new era, poised to carve out their place in the ever-evolving landscape of K-pop.

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EXO Finally Releases Special ‘Love Fool’ MV

The wait is finally over. EXO has officially released the special ‘Love Fool’ MV that was originally shot for their 12th-anniversary fan meeting earlier this month.

EXO Drops Special ‘Love Fool’ MV

On April 22, the official EXO YouTube account uploaded the special music video. It features Suho, Xiumin, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, and D.O. preparing sweet delights. The MV concludes with the members sharing a dedication to EXO-Ls.

‘Love Fool’ was featured in EXO’s seventh studio album ‘Exist’ which was released in July 2023. Although it was never released, it proved to be one of EXO’s most beloved B-sides.

Interestingly, one of the EXO members originally had some trouble remembering that they have a song titled ‘Love Fool’. During an online fan sign last year, an EXO-L asked Chen to sing ‘Love Fool’ for her. However, Kim Jongdae had trouble remembering the song. In fact, he wasn’t even sure that the group had a song with that title from their recently released album.

Although Chen needed to be reminded about the song, it’s clear that he made a note to always remember it. EXO did not perform ‘Love Fool’ in their recent fan event but it was turned into the special MV that the group presented before the encore. Not surprisingly, Eris loved it so much and were immediately hoping it would get released.

In related news, the group had an awesome interaction with their long-absent member Lay. On April 21, Zhang Yixing went on Instagram Live as he was on his way to a music show appearance to promote his new single “Psychic”. As he was answering questions from fans, he was interrupted by a video call from fellow EXO member Chanyeol, who was in Japan for a solo schedule. The two then spoke about a possible collaboration on Chayeol’s upcoming solo project.

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ILLIT Planning to Change Fandom Name Following Announcement Backlash

The journey of naming a fandom is a delicate balance between creativity, resonance, and uniqueness. For ILLIT, this journey took a surprising turn as the group announced, then promptly decided upon changing, their fandom name due to intense backlash.

ILLIT Announces, Then Changes Fandom Name

ILLIT initially unveiled “LILLY” as the official name for their devoted fanbase during a Weverse live broadcast. Explaining the choice, member Wonhee articulated the significance of the name, symbolizing an enduring bond of “unchanging love” between the group and their fans.

However, what was intended as a moment of celebration quickly turned into a whirlwind of controversy as fans voiced their concerns about the similarity of “LILLY” to existing names within the K-pop fandom landscape. The potential for confusion and overlap with other fandoms raised valid points, sparking intense backlash and prompting a swift response from ILLIT’s agency, BELIFT LAB.

Acknowledging the feedback and concerns raised by fans, BELIFT LAB announced their decision to reconsider the official fandom name. This demonstrates a commendable commitment to listening to the voices of their supporters and ensuring that the fandom’s identity reflects both the group’s vision and the fans’ distinctiveness.

The decision to change the fandom name reflects BELIFT LAB’s responsiveness and adaptability in navigating the complexities of fan engagement in the ever-evolving K-pop industry. By prioritizing clarity, distinction, and inclusivity, ILLIT and their agency aim to cultivate a fandom identity that resonates deeply with fans while avoiding potential confusion or conflicts with existing fandoms.

As ILLIT embarks on this journey of reevaluation and rebranding, fans eagerly await the unveiling of a new fandom name that encapsulates the spirit of unity, passion, and unwavering support that defines their relationship with the group. In this process of evolution, both ILLIT and their fans continue to demonstrate the power of collaboration and communication in shaping the vibrant tapestry of the K-pop community.

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EXO Fans Thrilled as Lay and Chanyeol Interact in Awesome Video Call

It looks like EXO-Ls have found a reason to celebrate. EXO members Lay and Chanyeol just had a video call on Instagram and fans are loving the hilarious interaction!

Lay and Chanyeol Treat Fans to A Hilarious Video Call

In case you missed it, Lay Zhang is currently in South Korea to promote his new single “Psychic”. Although the Chinese soloist has been in the country for a few days, he has yet to publicly reunite with his fellow EXO members.

Luckily, the drought has come to an end. On April 21, Zhang Yixing went on Instagram Live as he was on his way to a music show appearance. As he was answering questions from fans, he was interrupted by a video call from fellow EXO member Chanyeol, who was in Japan for a solo schedule.

It was an awesome interaction that EXO-Ls have been waiting for since it was confirmed that Lay would be returning to Korea this month. Lay and Chanyeol even discussed a possible collaboration in the latter’s planned solo effort that will hopefully get released later this year.

Although there was no interaction with the other active members of EXO, Eris were delighted to see Lay and Chanyeol having a great time in their video call. Fans are hoping that this is just the start of more interactions between the EXO members this year.

Lay is currently concentrating on his solo career. However, he regularly speaks about being a member of EXO. It was previously reported that Lay performed classic EXO songs “Growl” and “Call Me Baby” during a solo fan meeting in Japan. Additionally, he has expressed his interest in reunited with the rest of the group in the future.

In related news, EXO held their 12th-anniversary fan meeting earlier this month. Kai and Sehun, who are currently serving their mandatory military service, were in attendance.

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aespa Announces 1st Full Album with ‘Armageddon’ Teaser

aespa is finally ready for their first full album! The girl group has confirmed their comeback and to hype things up, they dropped a new ‘Armageddon’ teaser!

aespa Confirms May Comeback with ‘Armaggedon’ Teaser

Fans of aespa have eagerly marked their calendars as the highly anticipated announcement of the group’s comeback sent waves of excitement throughout the K-pop community. With the revelation of their first full-length album titled “Armageddon,” set to drop on May 27 at 6 p.m. KST, anticipation is also at an all-time high for what promises to be a groundbreaking release.

However, amidst the excitement, concerns arose regarding Winter’s health following news of her recent surgery for pneumothorax, or collapsed lung. SM Entertainment’s official confirmation of Winter’s surgery reassured fans that she is currently recovering, with the agency emphasizing her well-being as their top priority.

The decision for Winter to undergo surgery as a preventive measure reflects SM Entertainment’s commitment to ensuring the health and safety of their artists. Pneumothorax is a condition known for its risk of recurrence, and the agency’s proactive approach also underscores their dedication to Winter’s long-term health and career.

Will Winter Join aespa’s May Comeback?

With Winter’s recovery underway, fans are left to wonder how her surgery will impact aespa’s scheduled activities, including their upcoming comeback and world tour. SM Entertainment’s statement regarding future schedules also indicates a cautious approach, with Winter’s well-being guiding any decisions regarding her involvement in group activities.

Despite the setback, aespa’s comeback plans remain intact, signaling the group’s determination to deliver an unforgettable album to their fans. As they prepare to unveil “Armageddon,” aespa continues to captivate audiences with their innovative concept and captivating performances, solidifying their status as one of K-pop’s most exciting acts.

Looking ahead, fans can expect aespa to navigate Winter’s recovery with grace and resilience, prioritizing her health while also delivering on their promise of new music and thrilling performances. With the support of their dedicated fanbase, aespa is poised to conquer new heights as they embark on their comeback journey and prepare for a world tour that also promises to showcase their unparalleled talent and charisma on a global stage.

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MONSTA X I.M Announces 2024 Off The Beat World Tour Cities and Dates

Fans of MONSTA X’s talented rapper I.M have reason to rejoice as he embarks on an exhilarating solo world tour. The rapper has just announced the 2024 Off The Beat world tour along with the official dates and cities.

MONSTA X Member I.M. To Embark on 2024 Off The Beat World Tour

The upcoming world tour kicks off with a bang in Seoul with back-to-back nights of electrifying performances on May 25 and 26, setting the stage for an unforgettable journey across continents. From the vibrant streets of Seoul, I.M will take his dynamic stage presence and infectious energy to mesmerize audiences across Europe, starting with iconic cities like London, Paris, Cologne, and Berlin. Each stop promises to be a celebration of music, culture, and unity as fans come together to experience the magic of I.M’s solo performances.

As the tour gains momentum, I.M will make his way across the Atlantic to captivate fans in North America. From the historic city of Boston to the bustling streets of New York, the tour will make stops in major cities including Toronto, Chicago, Houston, Dallas, Vancouver, Berkeley, and culminating in a grand finale in the entertainment capital of the world, Los Angeles. With each performance, I.M’s unique style and charisma are sure to leave an indelible mark on audiences, solidifying his position as a global phenomenon.

I.M Going Solo

After wowing fans in North America, I.M will make a triumphant return to Asia, where he will continue to spread his musical influence. From the vibrant cityscape of Taipei to the bustling metropolis of Tokyo, and the lively streets of Bangkok to the glitz and glamour of Macau, I.M will showcase his versatility and artistry to audiences across the continent. Each concert will be a testament to the power of music to transcend boundaries and unite fans from diverse backgrounds.

As anticipation builds for “Off The Beat,” fans eagerly await the opportunity to witness I.M’s solo journey unfold on stage. With a world-class production, electrifying performances, and unforgettable moments, I.M’s world tour promises to be an immersive experience that fans will cherish for years to come. Get ready to embark on a musical adventure like no other with I.M as he takes you “Off The Beat” and into the heart of his mesmerizing world.

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SM Entertainment Reportedly Facing Lawsuit Over SMTown LA Construction Costs

The saga surrounding SM Entertainment’s ambitious project, SMTown LA, has taken a turn for the legal as the company finds itself embroiled in controversy over unpaid construction costs. What began as a promising venture to establish a foothold in the international market and cater to the enthusiastic K-pop fanbase in Los Angeles has now morphed into a legal battle with potentially significant financial implications.

SM Entertainment Facing Legal Trouble over SMTown LA Construction

The initial excitement among LA K-pop fans and the city’s endorsement of the project, symbolized by the designation of “SM Entertainment Square,” now seems a distant memory as construction remains at a standstill. The revelation that SM Entertainment failed to fulfill its financial obligations to Pub Construction and other parties involved in the project has prompted legal action against the entertainment giant.

With construction costs left unpaid and numerous companies clamoring for reimbursement, the situation has escalated into a multi-faceted legal dispute. The architectural design firm responsible for crafting the plans for SMT LA has come forward, shedding light on the challenges they faced during the project’s tumultuous journey. Delays, design alterations, and a lack of payment have marred their experience, reflecting a broader pattern of mismanagement and negligence on SM’s part.

The implications extend beyond mere financial losses; safety concerns and regulatory violations have also plagued the construction process. SM’s failure to secure necessary permits and ensure the safety of pedestrians further compounds the company’s woes, casting doubt on its ability to execute large-scale projects responsibly.

The transition in SM’s management, particularly the shift to Kakao, has been cited as a contributing factor to the project’s troubles. Amidst this upheaval, Pub Construction CEO Chris Yi’s condemnation of SM’s behavior as “exploitative and detrimental” underscores the severity of the situation. His intention to escalate the matter to the Korean government signals a determination to hold SM accountable and prevent further harm to Korean companies involved in such ventures.

As legal proceedings unfold and scrutiny intensifies, SM Entertainment finds itself confronting not only financial liabilities but also reputational damage. The promise of SMTown LA has been overshadowed by allegations of mismanagement and non-payment, serving as a cautionary tale for companies venturing into international expansion without meticulous planning and execution.

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