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SEVENTEEN’s Mingyu Named as New Face of Calvin Klein Campaign

Mingyu updates fans with an outtake from a recent fashion shoot. Credit: Instagram/Mingyu

Attention, CARATs! Gear up to witness model Mingyu flaunt the Calvin Klein look!

On February 20, South Korean media outlets confirmed that Kim Mingyu of the multi-awarded K-pop group SEVENTEEN has been selected as the new face for a campaign of the prominent fashion brand Calvin Klein. 

According to the announcement, the SEVENTEEN rapper will begin representing the apparel for their 2024 spring/summer campaign. Aside from Mingyu, breakthrough girl group NewJeans has also been tapped as models for the same campaign.

In its previous collection, Calvin Klein showed the convergence of K-pop and high fashion through their ambassadors BLACKPINK’s Jennie, GOT7’s Mark and BTS’ Jungkook. 

Known for his impeccable fashion sense, Mingyu shared his excitement on the upcoming project. On the fandom platform Weverse, he wrote: “CK let’s go.”

As of writing, there’s no final details yet about the release of the said campaign. 

Fans react to Mingyu for Calvin Klein

Upon the news of the collaboration, fans of SEVENTEEN expressed their excitement on social media.

Taking Calvin Klein’s branding into account, several fans guessed that Mingyu will be posing in photos showing his fit and toned body, like the brand’s models in the past. “I’m so excited for him, I hope we all survive,” one fan wrote.

 

Moreover, another said that the campaign would highlight the idol’s defined features. “Once his Calvin Klein photoshoot [is] released, that would be the death of me,” another said. Notably, the rapper has also worn Calvin Klein pieces in his previous photoshoots – with some snaps easily becoming a favorite of his fans. 

Others also noted that it can be a continuous breakthrough for the K-pop star to dominate his modeling skills. Aside from being tapped as the newest face of Calvin Klein, the “Bittersweet” singer has also been invited to attend the 2024 Paris Fashion Week for the Dior show. Moreover, he has also modeled brands such as Bvlgari and Cartier for his previous magazine covers.

Featured image: Mingyu updates fans with an outtake from a recent fashion shoot. Credit: Instagram/Mingyu

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EXO Announces Surprise Fan Meeting Set for April 2024

EXO poses for their album 'EXIST.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

EXO has an amazing treat for Eris! It has just been revealed that the idol group will hold a surprise fan meeting later in April!

EXO Confirms Surprise Fan Meeting in April 2024

The announcement of the ‘2024 EXO FAN MEETING : ONE‘ has sent waves of excitement through the global EXO-L fandom, marking a highly anticipated return for the beloved K-pop group. Scheduled to take place at the prestigious Incheon Yeongjongdo Inspire Arena on April 14th, the fan meeting will be divided into two sessions, accommodating the enthusiastic crowds of EXO-Ls eager to engage with their favorite idols.

This surprise fan meeting comes as a delightful treat for fans, especially after the success of the previous ‘EXO CLOCK’ event in 2023. With six members—Suho, Xiumin, Baekhyun, Chen, Chanyeol, and D.O.—gracing the stage, attendees can anticipate a memorable and intimate experience, filled with special interactions and cherished moments shared between the idols and their devoted supporters. Although Kai and Sehun are currently serving in the military, their absence will surely be felt, yet the presence of the remaining members promises to deliver a spectacular event.

Will Lay Reunite with EXO?

While uncertainties linger regarding Lay’s participation, fans remain hopeful for his involvement, especially following his expressed desire to reunite with the group. Nevertheless, the prospect of witnessing the dynamic synergy of the six members reuniting on stage is enough to fuel anticipation and excitement among EXO-Ls worldwide.

Ticket reservations for the fan meeting will commence through the Melon Ticket website, with exclusive pre-sales for official EXO-L members beginning on March 4th. General sales will follow on March 6th, allowing fans ample opportunity to secure their spots and be part of this unforgettable event celebrating their love for EXO.

Despite recent controversies and changes in individual activities, EXO’s enduring popularity and influence in the music industry remain undeniable. Their seventh million-seller album, ‘EXIST,’ and the chart-topping success of ‘First Snow’ serve as testament to their unwavering appeal and resonance with fans across the globe.

As EXO continues to navigate their individual pursuits while maintaining their collective legacy under SM Entertainment, the ‘2024 EXO FAN MEETING : ONE’ stands as a reaffirmation of their bond with fans and a testament to the enduring strength of their fandom. With anticipation building and excitement mounting, EXO-Ls eagerly await the opportunity to come together and celebrate their shared love for EXO.

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IU Confirms Unexpectedly Long Friendship with RIIZE Anton

IU has been in the entertainment industry for several years but it looks like she has an unexpectedly long friendship with a rookie! The soloist confirmed she has known RIIZE member Anton for a lot longer than expected.

IU Has Unexpectedly Long Friendship with RIIZE’s Anton

IU’s recent comeback sparked a wave of excitement among her devoted fans, who wasted no time in launching the “IStanU” challenge to celebrate the occasion. Among the unexpected participants in this viral challenge was RIIZE’s very own Anton, who took to his group’s social media platforms to showcase his support for the iconic singer-songwriter.

Anton’s involvement in the “IStanU” challenge garnered significant attention, particularly after IU herself acknowledged his participation. The acclaimed artist not only watched Anton’s challenge but also took the time to repost a screenshot of it on her Instagram account, accompanied by words of praise. In her caption, IU commended Anton, affirming that he was “totally a pro” and showcasing her genuine appreciation for his efforts.

What makes Anton’s participation in the challenge even more noteworthy is the longstanding connection between IU and his family. IU’s close relationship with Anton’s father, Yoon Sang, has been well-documented over the years, with the two artists sharing a deep bond that transcends their respective careers in the music industry. As a result, IU has played a significant role in Anton’s life, offering support and guidance as he navigates his own path in the entertainment world.

Friends Since Pre-Debut

Prior to Anton’s debut as a member of RIIZE, he shared fond memories of spending time with IU, including a memorable meal they shared together and a generous gift of Louis Vuitton shoes from the esteemed singer. IU’s support for Anton extends beyond mere social media interactions, as evidenced by her decision to follow his personal Instagram account even before his official debut.

The enduring friendship between IU and Anton serves as a heartwarming testament to the genuine connections forged within the entertainment industry. Despite their busy schedules and demanding careers, IU and Anton have maintained a strong bond rooted in mutual respect, admiration, and shared experiences. As IU continues to inspire audiences with her music and artistry, it’s clear that her impact extends far beyond the stage, touching the lives of those fortunate enough to call her a friend.

As IU and Anton’s friendship continues to thrive, fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of future collaborations and interactions between the two artists. In the meantime, their heartwarming exchange on social media stands as a touching reminder of the power of genuine connections and the enduring influence of friendship in the world of entertainment.

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EXO Lay Performs ‘Growl’ and ‘Call Me Baby’ at Japan Fanmeet

EXO-Ls who attended Lay’s recent Japan fanmeet were truly in for a treat. Zhang Yixing delighted fans with an unexpected performance of EXO classics like “Growl” and “Call Me Baby”!

Lay Performs EXO Classics at Japan Fanmeet

Lay recently surprised fans after he was spotted at the airport in Korea. However, the EXO member was only in the country for a few hours as he was later seen in Japan preparing for his solo fan meeting the Burning Heart fanmeet.

As expected, Lay had wonderful treats for Eris who attended the fan meeting. At one point, Zhang took on a Random Dance challenge and chose to perform “Growl” by EXO. His other choice also happened to be “Call Me Baby”, a song he helped make popular.

“Growl” was released on August 5, 2013, for the repackaged edition of EXO’s first studio album ‘XOXO’. The song is known as the group’s breakthrough single, with over two million downloads in South Korea. The MV also kickstarted the schoolboy trend for idol groups in the country.

“Call Me Baby” was released on March 27, 2015, and served as the lead single of EXO’s second studio album ‘Exodus’. Fellow Chinese member Tao was absent from promotional activities of the album and would later withdraw from the group. This made “Call Me Baby” the last EXO single Huang Zitao would participate in.

For now, Lay has not been participating in EXO’s group activities, especially during their brief promotion of the album ‘Exist’ and the title track “Cream Soda”. However, he made it clear that he is still very much a part of the idol group when he joined the “First Snow” TikTok challenge and encouraged the other members to do the same.

It has not yet been confirmed whether Lay and the rest of EXO will reunite for a comeback this year. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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TWICE Tops Global iTunes Charts With “With YOU-th”

TWICE’s highly anticipated comeback with their mini-album “With YOU-th” and its title track “ONE SPARK” has set the music industry ablaze with its promising start. Released on February 23 at 2 p.m. KST, the mini-album quickly gained traction, soaring to the top of the Global iTunes charts.

‘With YOU-th’ Dominates Global iTunes Charts

Within just a few hours of its release, “With YOU-th” achieved the remarkable feat of claiming the No. 1 spot on iTunes Top Albums charts in over 24 regions, including the United States, Japan, Brazil, Mexico, and more. This unprecedented achievement highlights the group’s global appeal and the immense anticipation surrounding their latest musical offering.

Notably, the music video for “ONE SPARK” also made waves, securing the coveted No. 1 position on YouTube’s worldwide list of Top Trending Music Videos. The visually captivating and energetically choreographed MV captivated audiences with its infectious beats and dynamic performances, further solidifying TWICE’s status as K-pop royalty.

Moreover, “With YOU-th” shattered TWICE’s previous first-week sales record on the very first day of its release, underscoring the group’s unwavering popularity and the overwhelming support of their dedicated fanbase, known as ONCEs. The mini-album’s success not only reflects TWICE’s remarkable growth as artists but also highlights their ability to consistently deliver high-quality music that resonates with fans across the globe.

TWICE’s triumphant comeback serves as a testament to their enduring influence and relevance in the ever-evolving K-pop landscape. With their signature catchy melodies, captivating performances, and undeniable charisma, TWICE continues to captivate audiences and dominate charts with each new release.

As the group embarks on this exciting new chapter in their career, fans eagerly anticipate the myriad of achievements and milestones that lie ahead for TWICE. With their boundless talent and unwavering determination, TWICE is poised to continue making history and leaving an indelible mark on the global music scene for years to come.

Congratulations to TWICE on their phenomenal comeback, and here’s to many more successes in the future!

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NCT Doyoung’s Gentlemanly Actions at Fashion Show Earns Praises

NCT’s Doyoung’s recent appearance at the Dolce & Gabbana show in Milan not only showcased his fashion-forward style but also highlighted his gentlemanly actions.

Doyoung’s Gentlemanly Actions Earn Praise from Netizens

Seated next to actress Moon Ga Young, the two Korean ambassadors exuded confidence in their bold ensembles, with plunging necklines and daring mesh fabrics.

However, the unpredictable weather took a toll on Moon Ga Young, as the rain caused temperatures to plummet below 10 degrees Celsius. Despite the discomfort himself, Doyoung demonstrated chivalry by immediately offering his jacket to the shivering actress. Fans couldn’t help but admire his selfless gesture, even though it left him in just a plunging singlet, sparking concerns for his well-being.

The incident further solidified Doyoung’s reputation as a gentleman, earning praise and admiration from both fans and onlookers alike. While a staff member swiftly provided him with a replacement jacket, Doyoung’s act of kindness left a lasting impression, showcasing not only his fashion sense but also his compassionate nature.

Doyoung as a Global Ambassador

Dolce & Gabbana’s decision to appoint Doyoung as their brand ambassador for South Korea and Japan in 2023 was a testament to his rising prominence in the fashion world. As a member of NCT since 2016, Doyoung has continually impressed with his vocal prowess and stage presence. From his early days in NCT U to his current role in NCT 127 and the newly formed subunit NCT DoJaeJung, Doyoung has showcased versatility and talent.

Moreover, Doyoung’s upcoming solo debut later this year further cements his status as a multifaceted artist poised for success beyond group activities. As anticipation mounts for his solo endeavors, fans eagerly await to see Doyoung’s artistic vision and musical prowess shine in his solo ventures.

In essence, Doyoung’s appearance at the Dolce & Gabbana show not only highlighted his fashion-forward sensibilities but also showcased his compassionate nature and rising prominence as a global ambassador for Korean fashion and culture. As he continues to make strides in his career, Doyoung’s star power and influence are only set to grow, solidifying his status as a true icon in the entertainment industry.

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The Givers CEO Ahn Sung Il To Face Additional Embezzlement Charges

The latest development in the legal saga involving The Givers CEO Ahn Sung Il sheds light on the gravity of the accusations against him. The revelation of additional embezzlement charges adds another layer of complexity to an already convoluted case, further tarnishing Ahn Sung Il’s reputation and raising questions about the integrity of his business practices.

The Givers CEO To Face Additional Embezzlement Charges

The decision to send Ahn Sung Il’s case to prosecution underscores the seriousness of the allegations against him. Embezzlement, a serious white-collar crime involving the misappropriation of funds, carries severe legal consequences and can result in significant penalties, including imprisonment and hefty fines. The fact that the Seoul Central District Prosecutors’ Office has deemed the evidence sufficient to warrant prosecution speaks volumes about the strength of the case against him.

The allegations of embezzlement, coupled with the previously filed charges of obstruction of justice, destruction of records, and breach of trust, paint a damning picture of The Givers CEO conduct. If found guilty, he could face severe repercussions not only in terms of legal consequences but also in terms of damage to his professional reputation and standing within the entertainment industry.

The ongoing legal battle between ATTRAKT, The Givers, and FIFTY FIFTY has captured public attention due to its high-profile nature and the implications it holds for all parties involved. The allegations of coercion and unlawful interference in contractual agreements have raised concerns about the ethical standards and integrity of certain individuals within the entertainment industry.

As the case unfolds, stakeholders will be closely monitoring the proceedings and awaiting the outcome of the prosecution’s investigation. The resolution of this legal dispute will have far-reaching implications for the future of the parties involved and could potentially set a precedent for similar cases in the industry.

In the meantime, the allegations against Ahn Sung Il serve as a sobering reminder of the importance of upholding ethical standards and adhering to the rule of law in all aspects of business dealings. The repercussions of his actions, if proven true, highlight the need for increased accountability and transparency within the entertainment industry to safeguard the interests of all stakeholders involved.

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SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids among K-pop Acts That Made It To IFPI’s Best-Selling Artists Worldwide in 2023

SEVENTEEN releases special video for 'April Shower.' Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

2023 was indeed a huge year for K-pop and groups SEVENTEEN and Stray Kids were among those that dominated it. 

On Thursday, February 22, the International Federation of the Phonographic Industry (IFPI) released its annual rankings for the best-selling artists worldwide and several K-pop acts made it to the 2023 list!

According to Soompi, IFPI’s Global Recording Artist Chart “ranks aritsts based on physical sales, downloads, and streaming over the course of the past year.” 

Leading the K-pop acts is the “God of Music” hitmakers SEVENTEEN. Notably, the 13-member boy group ranked second overall in the worldwide rankings, just right after award-winning singer songwriter Taylor Swift. Moreover, this served group’s the third consecutive year in the top 10 of the chart. 

In 2023, SEVENTEEN bagged numerous awards for their recent albums FML and Seventeenth Heaven. Aside from that, the “Super” hitmakers made an unprecedented record of more than 10 million physical album sales, from January to September of 2023 alone.

Following SEVENTEEN is the 4th generation group Stray Kids, who achieved a number of milestones in 2023. To specify, the “LALALALA” singers scored a back-to-back No. 1 on the Billboard 200 Album Sales Chart for their full-length album 5-Star and their mini-album Rock Star.

Moreover, the five-member boy group TOMORROW X TOGETHER also made it to the list. Placing seventh in the overall list, TOMORROW X TOGETHER managed to be one of IFPI’s best-selling artists with the release of their album The Name Chapter: FREEFALL.

After the three boy groups, rookie monsters NewJeans made history as they became the first and only K-op girl group to make it to the Top 10 list. The quintet, who are best known for hits “Hype Boy”, “Attention”, “Super Shy”, ranked eight overall.

 

Fans rejoice as K-pop continues to dominate

With the K-pop acts securing their respective spots in the IFPI best-selling artists list for 2023, they now join international stars Drake, The Weeknd, Lana del Rey, and others in the Top 10.

After seeing the inclusion of the K-Pop names among the list of Western artists, the fans of SEVENTEEN, Stray Kids, TOMORROW X TOGETHER and NewJeans expressed their happiness over their idols’ achievements.

On social media, CARATs, STAYs, MOAs, and Bunnies (the groups’ fan bases, respectively), showed how proud they are of the artists.

One Carat referred to SEVENTEEN as “global superstars who are insanely famous. Meanwhile, a STAY congratulated Stray Kids and said that their music is so loved.

MOAs also applauded TOMORROW X TOGETHER’s jump to the seventeen spot after not being on the list for the 2022 Top 20 chart. Having high hopes that the “Chasing That Feeling” singers continue to soar, a fan stated that 2024 will even be better for the group.

https://twitter.com/meemznn/status/1760667732633100331

 

Lastly, Bunnies also shared their congratulatory messages for NewJeans and called them “queens” and “smash hitmakers.” 

In addition to these Top 10 placers, K-pop groups IVE and NCT Dream also secured the No. 12 and No. 15 spots, respectively. Congratulations! 

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases special video for ‘April Shower.’ Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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EXO’s ‘Love Shot’ Finally Reaches 600M Views on YouTube

EXO’s monumental achievement of surpassing 600 million views on YouTube with their “Love Shot” music video marks a historic milestone for the group.

EXO’s ‘Love Shot’ MV Reaches 600 Million Views

Released on December 13, 2018, “Love Shot” captivated audiences with its captivating visuals, dynamic choreography, and infectious beats.

The music video portrays the members navigating between contrasting settings, from the gritty ambiance of a gas station to opulent surroundings, before engaging in a dramatic shootout sequence against unexpected adversaries. The video’s juxtaposition of gritty realism with luxurious aesthetics adds depth to the narrative, enhancing the overall impact of the song.

The success of “Love Shot” on YouTube reflects EXO’s enduring popularity and influence in the global music scene. The group’s loyal fanbase, known as EXO-Ls, played a pivotal role in driving the music video’s views, demonstrating their unwavering support for the group. EXO’s ability to consistently captivate audiences with their innovative music and captivating performances has cemented their status as one of the most iconic K-pop acts of all time.

A Long-Awaited Achievement

“Love Shot” is more than just a chart-topping hit; it’s a testament to EXO’s musical prowess and artistic vision. Produced by Rice N’ Peas, the track is characterized by its infectious chorus, pulsating 808 bass, and memorable hooks. Members Chen and Chanyeol contributed to the songwriting process, infusing the lyrics with themes of longing, hope, and the search for true love amidst a world fraught with challenges and uncertainties. The song’s universal appeal resonated with fans worldwide, propelling it to become one of EXO’s most beloved tracks.

While EXO has yet to announce plans for a group comeback this year, their recent achievement with “Love Shot” serves as a reminder of their enduring legacy and continued relevance in the music industry. With each milestone they achieve, EXO solidifies their position as pioneers of the K-pop genre, inspiring countless artists and fans alike with their creativity, talent, and dedication to their craft. As EXO-Ls eagerly await news of future projects, “Love Shot” stands as a timeless anthem that encapsulates the essence of EXO’s unparalleled artistry and impact on the global music landscape.

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BLACKPINK’s Jisoo Launches Own Company BLISSOO

Jisoo announces the establishment of BLISSOO. Credit: Website/BLISSOO

From being an outstanding idol to a skilled actress, Jisoo is now entering a new era as a CEO! On February 21, Jisoo of the sensational K-pop girl group BLACKPINK has announced that she’s starting anew through her own company, BLISSOO. 

Alongside the confirmation about the newly-launched agency, the official social media accounts for it have also been available to the public. Sharing a photo of her smiling alongside the company logo, Jisoo announced that she is excited to share her new start with BLISSOO. 

In the caption, she wrote: “Stay tuned for what’s to come as I’m dedicated to bringing joy and happiness to each and everyone of you.” 

According to the company’s website, its name is a combination of the artist’s name, whose charm unfolds like a precious gift, and the word “bliss” which symbolizes complete happiness. Moreover, BLISSOO claims that their mission is to share the happiness Jisoo creates in her unique way.

Furthermore, the agency also asked fans to continue their support for the idol as well as her group, BLACKPINK. Earlier, it was rumored that the idol will pursue her solo activities under a family management system. 

Blinks send their well wishes for BLISSOO

With Jisoo now launching her own company, she now becomes the third BLACKPINK member to establish their own agencies. In December 2023, fellow member Jennie announced the establishment of own label Odd Atelier. Meanwhile, Lisa unveiled her own company LLOUD in early February 2024. 

As of now, Rosé is the only remaining member who has yet to establish her own label. 

To recall, the four BLACKPINK members renewed their group contracts with home agency, YG Entertainment, after their seven-year contract ended in August 2023. However, this renewal will only cater to their group activities as BLACKPINK. As for their individual schedules, YG Entertainment announced that Jisoo, Jennie, Lisa, and Rosé have different plans for their own respective career. 

Although set to be managed by their own labels for individual schedules, BLACKPINK assured that they will remain as OT4 for their group activities.

Following the news about BLISSOO, BLINKs, BLACKPINK’s fandom, expressed their happiness for Jisoo’s new era. On social media, they sent their congratulatory messages and well wishes for the “Flower” singer.

“I will always support you, our new CEO,” one fan wrote. Meanwhile, another said that she is both excited and proud of the idol.

Congratulations and good luck on your new journey, CEO Jisoo!

Featured image: Jisoo announces the establishment of BLISSOO. Credit: Website/BLISSOO

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