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Stray Kids’ Hyunjin Is Milan Fashion Week’s Top Influencer

Hyunjin

On February 29, 2024, Stray Kids’ Hyunjin made headlines by securing the top spot on the Most Visible Influencers by Estimated Media Value (EMV) list during Milan Fashion Week. Remarkably, he achieved this significant digital milestone with just one Instagram post. 

This feat was highlighted by Lefty, an influencer marketing platform known for optimizing strategy and automating workflows. STAYs were thrilled, because the other celebrities on the list engaged with their brands through multiple posts, ranging from two to 25 times.

As a global brand ambassador for Versace, Hyunjin’s presence brought significant attention to the luxury brand. According to Lefty, the week ended with a total EMV of 149 million USD. Versace’s global brand ambassador emerged as the event’s most influential figure, with that one post from Hyunjin generating an astounding 4.02 million USD in EMV and an impressive 37.4% engagement rate. These numbers underscore the K-pop idol’s unparalleled influence and proves that Versace did the right thing by partnering with him.

@skzeditroom

Congrats to @Versace for having Hwang Hyunjin #HyunjinxVersace #Hyunjin #Versace #mfw24 #HyunjinxVersaceFW24 #hyunjinedit #hwanghyunjin #milanfashionweek #versacefw24 #현진 #straykids

♬ 락 (樂) LALALALA – Stray Kids

Hyunjin is making waves in fashion

Versace itself reaped substantial benefits from this partnership, becoming the top brand of Milan Fashion Week with an EMV of 19.9 million USD. This success was largely due to its association with Hyunjin. His role as Versace’s global brand ambassador, starting on July 20, 2023, was historic. He became the first K-pop industry icon to represent the Italian luxury brand in such a capacity.

Meanwhile, as Hyunjin makes waves in fashion, his group, Stray Kids, continues to do so in music. They laid out all their plans for the year, including their fourth fan meeting, through their STEP OUT 2024 video. They’re also set to perform at Italy’s I-Days Milano music festival on July 12, 2024. They will perform in front of 80,000 spectators, becoming the first fourth-generation male K-pop act to headline this big event. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: No other celebrity’s impact came close to Hyunjin’s. He’s truly in a league of his own. Source: X/@ElleMenThailand.

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Sakura Adds Personal Touch to LE SSERAFIM’s ‘M Countdown’ Stage

LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura has not only dazzled fans with her performance skills but also with her adeptness at crocheting, transforming her hobby into stunning accessories and stage outfits. She took up crocheting last year, finding it the perfect activity to occupy her during downtime in waiting rooms. She became so good at it that she even crafted hats for TWICE’s Mina, Sana, and Momo. Each hat took her about three to four hours to complete, showcasing her dedication and focus. She also made a special present for someone’s dog.

What else has Sakura made?

Sakura’s focus is evident in how she once spent five continuous hours crocheting on a flight to the US without any distractions. Her dedication was highlighted last week when she revealed that she had crocheted her top for a Music Bank performance of LE SSERAFIM’s new single, “Easy.” (It’s the title track of their third mini album.)

‘EASY'(LE SSERAFIM SAKURA Fancam) @뮤직뱅크(Music Bank) 240223

The top, which she made with various crochet techniques to incorporate the song’s title into its design, impressed fans. Many said it looked professionally made. When Sakura posted photos of herself wearing it on Instagram, they showered her with comments and likes, praising her craftsmanship and fashion sense.

The admiration for Sakura’s crocheting talent also extended to LE SSERAFIM’s “Smart” performance on M Countdown, where each member appeared in beautifully crocheted tops and skirts, complete with matching accessories. Initially, fans believed Sakura had crafted every piece. It was later clarified, however, that she had made only some of the items. 

‘최초 공개’ LE SSERAFIM – Smart #엠카운트다운 EP.831 | Mnet 240229 방송

Sakura later shared pictures of the pieces she did make, further showcasing her talent and adding a personal touch to LE SSERAFIM’s stage. 

Dedication can lead to proficiency

The ability to use one’s artistic vision to create something from nothing is both challenging and rewarding. Crocheting involves mastering various stitches and techniques. Beginners typically start with simpler projects, such as scarves or dishcloths, to become acquainted with the yarn and hook. The fact that Sakura can now produce items that she and others can wear indicates she has reached at least an intermediate, if not advanced, level. This skill, like any, has a learning curve. Despite that, Sakura’s rapid advancement in crafting complex items within a year demonstrates that dedication can lead to proficiency.

Sakura’s contributions to the group’s aesthetics highlight her creativity and dedication. This endeared her even more to fans around the world. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sakura made her skirt and Kazuha’s headband. Amazing, right? Source: X/@sserasainte.

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Lee Soo Man Sells His Remaining SM Entertainment Shares to HYBE

HYBE has acquired an additional 3.64 percent stake in SM Entertainment for 104.3 billion KRW (approximately 78.2 million USD). This marks a major shift in the company’s ownership landscape. This transaction involves all the remaining shares of SM Entertainment held by its founder and former chief producer, Lee Soo Man. With this development, Lee Soo Man will no longer have any stake in the agency he built in 1995, home to K-pop acts like aespa and NCT.

The backstory to this development has to do with a decision Lee Soo Man made last year. He decided to sell a 14.8 percent stake in SM to HYBE during a contentious battle for control of the company involving Kakao. This latest purchase involves his 868,948 shares going for 120,000 KRW each. This price was significantly above the current share price. This move is the result of Lee Soo Man exercising his put option. This right was agreed upon during their previous transaction in February 2023.

@iqtaehyun

i was SHOCKED when i saw this but it wont rlly affect the idols under sm. #leesooman #sm #smentertainment #nct #aespa #redvelvet #kpopfyp

♬ sad SpongeBob music – michael

HYBE now owns 12.6 percent of SM

Set to be finalized by March 7, this acquisition will increase HYBE’s stake in SM Entertainment to 12.6 percent. The initial purchase of Lee Soo Man’s shares was part of HYBE’s effort to gain a controlling interest in the agency, amounting to an investment of 422.8 billion KRW. But when Kakao emerged as the winner in the takeover battle, HYBE had to reduce its stake back to around 8 percent.

Kakao and Kakao Entertainment currently hold a combined 39.87 percent stake in SM. This means they’re the company’s largest shareholders. This intense battle reshaped the ownership structure of SM Entertainment and had significant repercussions for Kakao. Its chief investment officer, Bae Jae-hyun, is currently standing trial over allegations of stock price manipulation during the bid.

The sale of Lee Soo Man’s remaining shares to HYBE is a landmark moment in SM Entertainment’s history. It means the man who built the agency no longer has any ties to it as of this writing. As SM Entertainment turns the page, the rest of the industry is waiting to see how this development will change the K-pop scene in South Korea and beyond. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: HYBE now has a larger ownership stake in the agency that was once one of its fiercest rivals. Source: X/@beyondthestarf.

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Former The Wind Leader Shin Jaewon Leaves Agency

Shin Jaewon, former leader of The Wind, has officially ended his contract with WithUs Entertainment. On February 28, the label confirmed the news, stating that Shin Jaewon is leaving the agency. This announcement follows Jaewon‘s departure from The Wind, which occurred just seven months after their debut. He cited personal reasons for his exit. WithUs Entertainment has announced that The Wind will continue as a six-member group. They have no plans to add any new members to replace Jaewon.

[쇼챔직캠 4K] The Wind Shin Jae Won – ISLAND (더윈드 신재원 – 아일랜드)

WithUs Entertainment released a statement about the situation. “Hello, we are WithUs Entertainment. We would like to inform you about the future course of action regarding Shin Jaewon and the future plans of The Wind. After discussing future activities with Shin Jaewon from various angles, we decided to terminate the exclusive contract by mutual agreement,” the agency stated.

The statement continued, “With this, The Wind will continue as a six-member band. We ask for your warm interest and love for the six members of The Wind, who will continue to grow. We will do our best to support The Wind as they develop as artists. Thank you.”

Fans expressed support for Shin Jaewon

Some time after the announcement was made, Jaewon opened a personal Instagram account. To date, it only has three posts.

The Wind is a six-member boy group under WithUs Entertainment, a subsidiary of Around US Entertainment. They made their official debut on May 15, 2023, with the mini-album Beginning: The Wind Page. Since then, the group has released two more mini-albums: The Wind: Summer Vacation and Our: Youthteen. Their name symbolizes the ambition to deliver healing to many people like a breeze. They aim to provide comfort, emotion, and pleasure in various ways, like the wind that changes with the seasons.

After Shin Jaewon’s departure, The Wind faced another challenge. Member An Chanwon also went on hiatus starting January 23, 2024, to focus on his health. These events mark a challenging period for The Wind as they attempt to move forward as a six-member group. Fans have expressed their support for both Shin Jaewon and the group’s remaining members as they navigate all these changes. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The Wind isn’t even a year old and already it lost a member! Source: Kpopping.

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ENHYPEN’s Ni-Ki Criticized for Comments on Independence Movement Day

ENHYPEN’s Ni-Ki recently found himself at the center of a controversy due to his comments about an important holiday in South Korea. 

The March 1st Movement, also known as Independence Movement Day, is an important part of the country’s history. It commemorates Koreans’ valiant efforts against Japanese colonial rule, which lasted in South Korea from 1910 to 1945. The movement began on March 1, 1919, as a peaceful demonstration. It was a response to Japan’s repressive colonial policies, including forced assimilation and suppression of Korean identity. Despite the peaceful nature of the protests, Japanese soldiers responded with violence. These clashes resulted in approximately 7,500 deaths, 16,000 injuries, and 46,000 arrests.

While the movement did not immediately liberate South Korea from Japan, it united Koreans and drew global attention to their struggle for freedom. It also led to the establishment of the Provisional Government of the Republic of Korea in Shanghai. The movement significantly contributed to South Korea’s liberation in 1945 after Japan’s World War II surrender. Today, March 1st is a day of pride and remembrance in South Korea, honoring those who fought for the country’s independence.

@kpopandtea

Niki’s comment is harmless and unintentional, but History is a difficult topic to touch so let us all be mindful. #niki #enhypen #controversy #unintentional

♬ jealousy jealousy x pacify her – ‍r7ptor

Ni-ki needs to think before he clicks

The controversy began when Ni-Ki wrote to fans via Weverse on January 29, 2024, encouraging them to “hang in there” for the upcoming weekend. When an ENGENE mentioned that the next day, March 1, was a public holiday for rest, Ni-Ki responded with “I’m jealous,” sparking immediate backlash. Given the historical sensitivity around Japanese occupation, South Koreans found his comments extremely inappropriate, especially because he’s Japanese.

When he realized how upset his comments had made people, ENHYPEN’s maknae quickly issued an apology. Returning to Weverse, he wrote, “Hello. This is Ni-ki. I apologize for my careless words regarding the March 1st Independence Movement Day, an important day of national commemoration. I’ve realized my mistake and immediately deleted the said post. I will be more careful in the future.”

Fans hope that in the future, Ni-ki will think before he clicks. That said, while many believe that he probably didn’t mean any harm, they still want him and other idols to understand and respect the historical and cultural contexts of the countries where they operate. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Ni-ki inadvertently kicked up a firestorm with a single comment. Source: X/@NikiMalaysia.

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BTS’s Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V Reportedly Earn Military Promotion

On February 29, 2024, fans learned that BTS members Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V earned promotions to Private First Class in the South Korean military. X (formerly Twitter) user @jaya20dec broke the news in a now-viral post. It highlights the significant progress the four have made since their enlistment in December 2023. 

RM and V underwent basic training at the Nonsan Training Center, where they were recognized as elite soldiers of their graduating batch. RM was assigned to the 15th Infantry Division in Hwacheon, Gangwon-do, and is currently playing the saxophone in the military band. Meanwhile, after an additional three-week stint at the Army General Administration School, V was assigned to the “Ssangyong Unit” in the 2nd Corps of the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, which falls under the Ground Operations Command. 

BTS’s Jimin and Jungkook enlisted together under the buddy system (“동반입대” or dongbanipdae). Initially, both went to the 5th Infantry Division, where fellow BTS member Jin is serving. But after a more detailed second classification, Jimin and Jungkook were reassigned to an artillery battalion. 

Military ranks of South Korea 2024 #koreanarmy #대한민국

From ‘ideungbyeon’ to ‘ildeungbyeong’ 

After completing almost three months in their respective units, the BTS members were promoted to Private First Class (“일등병” or ildeungbyeong) from Private (“이등병” or ideungbyeong). In the South Korean military, supervisors can request the promotion of recruits to Private First Class within one year of their enlistment. For the BTS members, their promotions took effect on March 1, 2024. 

The South Korean military is a comprehensive and structured organization with a clear hierarchy. This hierarchy divides ranks into several groups, including commissioned officers, enlisted personnel, non-commissioned officers (NCOs), and warrant officers. Each has specific roles, responsibilities, and promotion criteria.

Progression typically starts from Private and advances through ranks such as Private First Class, Corporal (“상등병” or sangdeungbyeong), and Sergeant (“병장” or byeongjang). Promotions are based on factors like time in service, performance, and passing specific tests. But the exact criteria can vary by military branch and its needs. The military emphasizes continuous training and development programs to prepare personnel for increased responsibilities. 

When will BTS be back? Each Members Discharge Date from the Military

When will BTS return to the music scene? 

Fans expressed pride upon learning about the promotions of Jimin, Jungkook, RM, and V. Currently, j-hope is a Corporal, which is a rank above Private First Class. Speaking of which, rumors are swirling that Jimin has just become eligible for a promotion to Corporal. Meanwhile, Jin holds the highest rank within the group as a Sergeant in the 5th Division. 

 All seven BTS members will be back from the military in June 2025. After their discharge, they plan to resume group activities. – K-Pop News Writer

 Featured Image: The boys are killing it in the military, and ARMYs couldn’t be prouder. Source: X/@BTSMalaysia.

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BTS’s Jimin Enters ‘Hometown Love Donation Project’ Hall of Fame

On February 22, 2024, the South Korean media outlet Busan Ilbo shared a heartwarming story. BTS member Jimin was inducted into the Hall of Fame as one of the major donors to the Hometown Love Donation project in Nam-gu, a district in the South Central part of Busan. This acknowledgment reflects Jimin’s long-standing commitment to philanthropy. Over the years, the idol has worked to uplift needy children and support various charitable causes.

He donated 3,766.08 USD (approximately 5,015,514.70 KRW) to the Hometown Love Donation project, which encourages donations to local governments beyond one’s own. It fosters community support across different regions. By donating the maximum amount an individual can contribute, Jimin demonstrated his dedication to making a positive impact. His contribution to Nam-gu, where his father’s cafe MAGNATE is located, further strengthens his ties to his hometown.

In recognition of his generous donations aimed at uplifting vulnerable sections of society and nurturing local communities and youth, Jimin was listed in the Hall of Fame for Major Donors on the district’s website. He also received a Plaque of Appreciation in August 2023. Demonstrating his humility, when Jimin received local specialties in return for his contributions, he chose to donate them to needy people in the district instead.

Fans called Jimin an ‘angel’

The Nam-gu office revealed that over 1,000 people have contributed to the Hometown Love Donation program, amassing over 110.95 million KRW (83,298.93 USD) so far. News of Jimin’s good deeds quickly spread, with ARMYs taking to social media to celebrate his kindness. They referred to the “Like Crazy” singer as an “angel” and expressed admiration for his actions.

In addition to his philanthropic achievements, Jimin finished basic military training with flying colors. He’s currently serving in the 5th Infantry Division alongside fellow BTS member Jungkook. They signed up for the South Korean military’s “동반입대” (dongbanipdae) or buddy system. This program allows soldiers to enlist and train with close friends or relatives. They can also live in the same residential unit. Both will return to the entertainment industry in 2025.

Jimin’s actions inspired not only his fans but also the wider community, proving that kindness and generosity can indeed leave a lasting impact. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: A giving heart beats within Jimin’s chest. Source: X/@thejiminpost.

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SEVENUS Teases First Mini Album ‘Spring Canvas’

K-pop duo SEVENUS is gearing up to release their first EP, SPRING CANVAS, on March 15, as announced by their agency PCS Entertainment. Fans’ anticipation for this EP surged with the release of its timetable image on SEVENUS’s official SNS accounts. In the days leading up to the EP’s release, the duo will drop a series of teasers. These include a highlight medley, concept photos, the tracklist, and two music video teasers.

SEVENUS, a South Korean male duo consisting of members Heejae and Ireah, made their mark through the survival show Peak Time. They represented their former group MASC, securing a commendable second-place finish. This triumph led to the announcement on May 3, 2023, that Heejae and Ireah would form SEVENUS. Their name combines “07:00”—their number on Peak Time—with the word “us,” symbolizing a deep connection with their fans. These fans are affectionately known as HEEALA, indicating that they will soar high alongside SEVENUS. “HEE”is a common syllable in both members’ names (Heejae and Jonghee, Ireah’s real name), further emphasizing this bond.

About the SEVENUS members

Heejae, originally an ENFJ like Ireah, now identifies as an INFJ. He has a background in arts, having studied at KayWon High School of Arts and Seoul Institute of the Arts. Heejae has diverse interests, ranging from calligraphy to music. Despite his fear of dogs, stemming from a childhood incident, he’s known for his positive energy and leadership qualities. His nickname is “Leader of Quokkas.” His role as the “Intro Master” on Peak Time showcased his musical prowess.

Ireah is known to those close to him as a “Baby Fox” due to his gentle nature. He has a fear of water and heights. Ireah’s talents lie in composing and cooking, with a preference for sushi among all foods. His motto, “A different perspective changes the world,” reflects the way he sees the world. Considered the best vocalist on Peak Time by his peers, Ireah’s supportive nature was a pillar of strength for Heejae during the most stressful moments of the show.

탄탄한 보컬 실력으로 2인조의 저력을 보여준 ‘MASC’ 무대 모아보기

Their perseverance paid off

Encouraged by his parents to pursue his idol dreams for one more year, Ireah saw Peak Time as their last shot. This perseverance paid off when they signed with PCS Entertainment after finishing as runners-up, allowing them to continue working as idols. SEVENUS officially debuted on July 31, 2023, with their single album Summús. They touched fans’ hearts last December with the seasonal track “MIRROR.”

As SEVENUS prepares to release SPRING CANVAS, their story serves as a reminder that one should never give up on one’s dreams. Who knows, your big break could be just around the corner!. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Ireah’s story is proof that you should always listen to your parents. Source: X/@officialSEVENUS.

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NCT’s Taeyong Tops iTunes Charts in 33 Countries With New EP

With the release of his new mini-album TAP on February 26, NCT’s Taeyong continues to showcase his immense popularity. TAP hit No. 1 on the iTunes Top Albums charts in countries including Australia, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Germany, India, Indonesia, Japan, Mexico, Saudi Arabia, Singapore, Spain, Thailand, and the United States. Overall, TAP went to No. 1 in 33 countries worldwide, including unexpected territories like Belarus, Finland, Peru, the Philippines, Russia, Taiwan, and Vietnam. 

Beyond its success on iTunes, TAP achieved remarkable feats on other platforms as well. It reached No. 1 on the Worldwide iTunes Album Chart, topped the digital album sales charts on China‘s QQ Music and Kugou Music, and climbed to the top of AWA’s real-time rapid rise chart in Japan. With these achievements, it’s no surprise that the album sold 229,426 copies in its first week.

Critics and fans have celebrated TAP for its eclectic mix of six tracks that explore various genres. The EP’s title track, “TAP,” demonstrates Taeyong’s artistic range and versatility, not only in his performances of dance and song but also through his contributions as a composer and songwriter. This particular track, distinguished by its infectious hip-hop beat and engaging rap, rapidly rose up the iTunes Top Songs charts in several countries, including Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Malaysia. It ultimately reached No. 1 in 16 regions worldwide.

TAEYONG 태용 ‘TAP’ MV

Taeyong expressed his gratitude

Since he debuted in 2016, Taeyong has been a lyricist for his groups NCT, NCT 127, and SuperM, accustomed to collaborating with other songwriters. However, for TAP, he chose to write all the lyrics by himself, working closely with a select group of three producers: Royal Dive, Squar, and Zayson. He clearly poured everything he had into the words he wrote, which is most likely why the album and its title track are so successful. Listeners can tell when something comes from the heart.

In response to the overwhelming success of TAP and its title track, Taeyong expressed his gratitude on Instagram Stories. He made special mention of the title track’s latest achievement: making it to MelOn‘s Top 100 chart. Sharing a heartfelt message on February 28, Taeyong thanked the fans for their support. NCTzens responded in kind elsewhere on social media.

This exchange not only underscores the deep connection between Taeyong and his fans. It also highlights his gratitude and humility in the face of his growing success. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Taeyong sold 229,426 copies of ‘TAP’ in the first week. Congratulations! Source: X/@kplantao.

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NCT WISH Releases Music Video for Debut Song ‘Wish’

NCT WISH, the latest—and last—unit of NCT, has officially made their debut with the release of their first single, “Wish.” This track is featured on their debut single album, also named Wish, along with the B-side “Sail Away.” Both tracks are available in Japanese and Korean.

NCT WISH 엔시티 위시 ‘WISH (Korean Ver.)’ MV

In the official music video for “Wish,” members Jaehee, Riku, Ryo, Sakuya, Sion, and Yushi dress as Cupids. It’s a fitting choice, considering the group’s commitment to fulfilling people’s dreams and wishes, particularly in matters of the heart. Although they portray neophyte Cupids, which adds an awkward and clumsy charm to their actions, their joyful and vibrant energy more than makes up for their inexperience.

The video shows the members descending from the sky and then roaming the city, aiming Cupid’s arrows at people to spread love. This mirrors NCT WISH’s real-life aim of touching people with their music, becoming a symbol of love and positivity, and bringing happiness to fans and everyone they encounter.

NCT WISH 엔시티 위시 ‘WISH’ Performance Video

NCT WISH begins their journey

Their dance moves, complete with a distinctive hand gesture synchronized with the song’s chorus, make the video even more appealing. Filmed in the scenic city of Barcelona, Spain, the video’s picturesque backdrop enhances NCT WISH’s youthful charm. The production seamlessly combines the members’ visuals with the mythological theme of Cupids. This creates a visually stunning experience that ensures each member gets ample screen time.

NCT WISH 엔시티 위시 ‘WISH’ Dance Practice

Both the song and its music video have received universal praise from netizens for their aesthetics, catchy melody, and more. Such unanimous acclaim is rare for a debut, underscoring the significant impact NCT WISH has already made on the K-pop industry. To celebrate the members’ achievements and show appreciation for their fans’ support, SM Entertainment released a performance video and a dance practice video.

As NCT WISH begins their journey, their debut with “Wish” sets a high bar. We eagerly anticipate their next moves and how they will outdo themselves in future comebacks. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: In this still from the music video, the members are getting ready to shoot someone with one of Cupid’s arrows. Source: YouTube/@SMTOWN.

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