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SEVENTEEN’s Hoshi Pays it Forward to Children in Need

Hoshi

Earlier this month, the Fruit of Love in Northern Gyeonggi announced that SEVENTEEN‘s Hoshi donated 100 million KRW to support children and teenagers in need worldwide. This act of generosity isn’t new for him. The idol, originally from Namyangju city in northern Gyeonggi, made a similar contribution last year. His donations have secured him a spot in the Honor Society, an esteemed group of donors who have contributed over 100 million KRW to the Community Chest of Korea within a span of five years.

Hoshi‘s recent donation will help build classrooms at national orphanages. This reflects his family’s desire to spread positivity within South Korea and beyond.

SEVENTEEN’s performance leader is all about paying it forward. In a statement released through a Fruit of Love platform, he said, “I’m grateful to the fans who have given me so much love, so I wanted to pass on the love I’ve received through this act of sharing. I hope children and adolescents in need, both in Korea and abroad, will grow up healthy. I aim to continue to be an artist who leads in spreading positivity.”

@seventeen17_official

Just shoot the SOS Thanks! (dc : @vk_is_vincekloyd)

♬ SOS (Prod. Marshmello) – SEVENTEEN

What sets Hoshi apart

Kwon In-wook, the president of Gyeonggi’s Love’s Fruit, expressed gratitude to Hoshi. “We’re thankful for his ongoing acts of sharing for the benefit of our neighbors in need. This precious donation will be used to support projects for children and adolescents facing difficulties both domestically and internationally,” he said.

In addition to his philanthropic efforts, Hoshi and SEVENTEEN are gearing up for their ‘FOLLOW’ AGAIN tour. It will kick off with performances at the Incheon Asiad Main Stadium in South Korea on March 30 and 31. From there, the 13-member boy group will perform at Japan’s Yanmar Stadium Nagai in Osaka on May 18 and 19, and head to the Nissan Stadium in Kanagawa on May 25 and 26. 

Hoshi‘s commitment to making a difference in the lives of children and teenagers in need sets him apart as a leading figure in K-pop. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Hoshi clearly has a heart of gold. Source: X/@svt_verse.

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Former AOA Yuna Shares Gorgeous Black Dress in Wedding Pictorial

Yuna is ready to tie the knot in style! The former AOA member has just revealed the gorgeous black dress she will be wearing when she marries composer Kang Jung Hoon this weekend!

Yuna Dons Gorgeous Black Dress for Wedding Pictorial

Yuna’s latest wedding pictorial photos have captivated fans with their elegance and charm. The former AOA member, known for her talent and grace, looked stunning in a gorgeous black dress, radiating confidence as she held hands with her fiancé, composer Kang Jung Hoon. Sharing the photos on her social media account, Yuna expressed her affection for the black dress, emphasizing its significance in her wedding pictorial.

The announcement of Yuna’s upcoming marriage, made in January on her personal Instagram account, was met with warm wishes and congratulations from fans and fellow celebrities alike. In her heartfelt caption, Yuna praised her fiancé, Kang Jung Hoon, highlighting his supportive and caring nature. She expressed gratitude for his unwavering presence during challenging times, describing him as a source of strength and comfort in her life.

Yuna Prepares for Married Life

Yuna and Kang Jung Hoon’s wedding ceremony, scheduled for February 18 in Seoul, promises to be a joyous and memorable occasion. The couple’s decision to exchange vows in a private setting reflects their desire for an intimate celebration surrounded by loved ones. As Yuna embarks on this new chapter of her life, fans continue to shower her with love and support, cheering her on as she embraces the journey of marriage.

Kang Jung Hoon, known professionally as Friday, has earned acclaim as a talented composer and producer, contributing to the success of numerous hit songs across various music genres. His impressive portfolio includes chart-topping tracks such as ITZY’s “DALLA DALLA,” SISTAR19’s “Ma Boy,” and ZE:A’s “Aftermath.” With his expertise and creativity, Kang Jung Hoon has made a significant impact on the K-pop industry, earning respect and admiration from fans and colleagues alike.

As Yuna and Kang Jung Hoon prepare to embark on this new chapter together, fans eagerly anticipate their wedding day, sending their heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the happy couple. With their love and commitment as their foundation, Yuna and Kang Jung Hoon are poised to build a beautiful life together, filled with love, joy, and endless possibilities.

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BOYNEXTDOOR Confirms Upcoming April Comeback

BOYNEXTDOOR is preparing new music for their fans! The boy group has just been confirmed for an April comeback!

KQ Entertainment Announces BOYNEXTDOOR April Comeback

BOYNEXTDOOR’s upcoming comeback has sparked excitement among fans, eager to see what the talented group has in store for their next musical chapter. With their agency, KOZ Entertainment, confirming their return for April, anticipation is building as supporters eagerly await further details regarding the comeback schedule and concept.

“BOYNEXTDOOR is preparing with the goal of making their comeback in April. We will officially share the detailed schedule in the future,” the agency said in a statement.

Since their debut, BOYNEXTDOOR has consistently impressed audiences with their distinctive sound and captivating performances. Their debut single album, “Who!”, introduced fans to their unique musical style, featuring tracks like “Serenade” and “But I Like You.” Collaborating with renowned artists like Zico, the group showcased their versatility and creativity, earning praise for their contributions to the album’s production and songwriting.

Following the success of their debut, BOYNEXTDOOR continued to captivate listeners with their releases, including their extended play “Why..,” which further solidified their position in the industry. With each new release, the group has demonstrated growth and evolution, exploring diverse musical genres and experimenting with different themes and concepts.

BOYNEXTDOOR’s Future Looks Bright

As they prepare for their highly-anticipated comeback in April, fans are eager to see how BOYNEXTDOOR will continue to push boundaries and showcase their artistic vision. With their agency’s support and the group’s unwavering dedication, expectations are high for another impactful and memorable comeback.

In addition to their musical endeavors, BOYNEXTDOOR has also made a mark with their contributions to various projects, including the release of “Fade Away” for the Naver webtoon “Garbage Time.” Through their involvement in different creative ventures, the group has further expanded their reach and solidified their presence in the entertainment industry.

Overall, BOYNEXTDOOR’s upcoming comeback is highly anticipated by fans and industry insiders alike. With their proven talent, passion for music, and commitment to delivering exceptional performances, the group is poised to make a lasting impression with their return in April. As they embark on this new chapter, supporters eagerly await the opportunity to experience their latest musical offerings and witness their continued growth and success in the industry.

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SUPER JUNIOR Choi Siwon Addresses Coin Fraud Allegations

Choi Siwon has broken his silence. The SUPER JUNIOR member has officially addressed the recent allegations of his involvement in coin fraud.

Choi Siwon Issues Statement Regarding Coin Fraud Allegations

In his statement, Choi Siwon unequivocally denied any involvement in the alleged coin fraud, asserting his innocence and refuting the accusations leveled against him. He expressed his deep disappointment and frustration at being falsely implicated in such a serious matter, emphasizing his commitment to upholding integrity and ethical conduct in all aspects of his life and career.

Furthermore, Choi Siwon reiterated his unwavering dedication to his fans and supporters, assuring them that he would not engage in any activities that could compromise their trust and admiration for him. He emphasized the importance of transparency and honesty, pledging to cooperate fully with any investigations to clear his name and address the baseless allegations against him.

“I wish to express explicitly that I have no involvement with regard to the controversy surrounding the Korea Youth Committee’s Youth Pay,” the statement read. “Furthermore, I have never been appointed as an ambassador for the Korea Youth Committee’s Youth Pay. While I have received an award at a ceremony organized by the Korea Youth Committee, this was in recognition of setting a good example for the youth, as intended by the committee, and is unrelated to the current controversy.

“I want to make it clear that I have had no involvement in the Korea Youth Committee’s Youth Pay or any individual’s political activities,” it concluded.

Siwon’s Future in The Industry

Choi Siwon’s statement serves as a resolute defense of his character and reputation in the face of unfounded accusations, underscoring his determination to confront and refute any false claims made against him. As a beloved member of SUPER JUNIOR and a respected figure in the entertainment industry, his steadfast denial of involvement in the coin fraud allegations also reaffirms his commitment to maintaining the trust and respect of his fans and colleagues.

Moving forward, Choi Siwon’s statement signals his intent to address the situation head-on and seek resolution, while also reaffirming his dedication to his career and his principles. As the truth unfolds and investigations progress, Choi’s supporters also stand by him, unwavering in their belief in his integrity and innocence.

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BLACKPINK Lisa Confirmed to Star in ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3

Lisa is officially set to be an actress. The BLACKPINK member has just been confirmed to join the cast of “The White Lotus” Season 3!

Lisa Joins ‘The White Lotus’ Season 3 Cast

Lisa’s debut on the small screen marks an exciting new chapter in her already illustrious career. As a member of the globally renowned girl group BLACKPINK, Lisa has captivated audiences with her mesmerizing performances and undeniable charm. Now, she is set to showcase her talent in the realm of acting, adding another layer to her multifaceted artistic repertoire.

Joining the cast of HBO’s acclaimed drama “The White Lotus” for its highly anticipated third season, Lisa is poised to make a memorable impression on audiences worldwide. The series, known for its intricate storytelling and compelling character arcs, provides the perfect platform for Lisa to demonstrate her acting prowess alongside a talented ensemble cast.

In response to the news of Lisa’s casting, her agency LLOUD confirmed her participation, affirming the exciting collaboration between the K-pop star and the prestigious HBO Original series. With her boundless creativity and dedication to her craft, Lisa is sure to bring depth and authenticity to her character, enriching the narrative of “The White Lotus” with her unique presence.

Lisa As An Actor

For fans of BLACKPINK, Lisa’s venture into acting represents a thrilling opportunity to see their beloved idol explore new artistic horizons and expand her creative repertoire. While she has dazzled audiences with her dynamic performances on stage, her transition to television screens offers a fresh perspective on her talent and versatility as an artist.

As the third BLACKPINK member to venture into acting, following in the footsteps of Jisoo and Jennie, Lisa’s foray into the world of television promises to be a groundbreaking moment for both herself and her dedicated fanbase. With her innate charisma and magnetic screen presence, she is poised to leave a lasting impact on audiences, further solidifying her status as a global icon.

As anticipation mounts for Lisa’s debut on “The White Lotus” Season 3, fans also eagerly await the opportunity to witness her transformative performance and celebrate yet another milestone in her remarkable career. With each new project, Lisa also continues to inspire and captivate audiences around the world, cementing her legacy as one of the most influential figures in the entertainment industry.

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Look: ENHYPEN Announces 2024 ‘Fate Plus’ Encore US Stops

ENHYPEN poses for their 'Orange Blood' album. Credit: Twitter/ENHYPEN

Attention, ENGENEs! K-pop boy group ENHYPEN is set to take the stage once again as they announce additional stops for their highly-anticipated 2024 FATE PLUS encore concert tour. 

On February 7, BELIFT LAB unveiled the schedule for the US leg of the group’s FATE PLUS stops. Initially, the encore concert was only set for a two-night residency at the KSPO Dome in Seoul on February 24 and 25. However, since tickets for both nights quickly sold out, the agency added another show for February 23. 

After their three-night encore concerts in Seoul, South Korea, ENHYPEN is taking their tour to the United States. From April to May, the group will be gracing five cities, including notable stops in California, Illinois, and New York. 

Furthermore, the announcement about the encore stops came after the group’s successful conclusion of their initial FATE concert tour. To note, the “Bite Me” hitmakers wrapped up their 21st show at the New Clark City Stadium in Tarlac, Philippines on February 3. 

In this concert tour, the group visited 13 cities in the world for the last six months. In a press release, BELIFT LAB said that a total of 327,000 fans attended the group’s concert. According to reports, 85,000 of those were from the US leg of the concert. Now that the septet is returning to the United States, more of their fans have the chance to see them perform live. 

Fans call for the agency to give ENHYPEN time to rest

While concert announcements are usually met with excitement, some fans of the group are worried about ENHYPEN’s schedule. On social media, several ENGENEs are asking BELIFT LAB to give the group ample time to rest. 

Some pointed out that the act has been on tour for three years in a row. Others also raised that some members have been getting sick on tour. Aside from these concert stops, fans also pointed out that the group have been busy doing comeback activities in between. 

Several ENGENEs emphasized that the timing of the encore concert was “unreasonable” and “exploitative.” Meanwhile, others called for BELIFT LAB to put the members’ health and well-being their priority. 

As of writing, BELIFT LAB has yet to react to the fans’ clamor. 

Featured image: ENHYPEN poses for their ‘Orange Blood’ album. Credit: Twitter/ENHYPEN

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STRAY KIDS Bang Chan Has Surprise Cameo in K-Pop Dance Group Video

Ryan Reynolds shared a hilarious video featuring himself to celebrate STRAY KIDS' Bang Chan's 26th birthday

The viral video of ORBIT Dance’s mesmerizing cover of VIVIZ’s “Maniac” not only captivated audiences with their incredible talent but also caught the attention of one very special spectator: Stray Kids’ Bang Chan. However, the Stray Kids’ leader’s surprise cameo in the K-pop dance group video is hardly the first one!

Is That Bang Chan in the New K-pop Dance Group Video?

As the camera panned to the crowd at the end of the performance, keen-eyed viewers quickly spotted the idol among the enthusiastic audience members, adding an unexpected twist to the already exhilarating moment.

The revelation sparked a flurry of excitement among fans, with social media platforms buzzing with discussions about Bang Chan’s surprise appearance. Despite his global fame, seeing Bang Chan enjoying the performance as an ordinary audience member added a touch of relatability and authenticity that resonated deeply with fans.

The ORBIT Dance group’s acknowledgment of Bang Chan’s presence in the video description further confirmed his attendance, much to the delight of fans who couldn’t contain their excitement at the unexpected crossover between K-pop and dance cover communities.

What made Bang Chan’s appearance even more special was the interaction that reportedly followed. According to the group’s account, Bang Chan not only watched their performance but also took the time to approach them afterward and commend their dancing skills. This heartwarming gesture from the Stray Kids leader left fans feeling touched by his humility and genuine appreciation for fellow performers.

Bang Chan’s impromptu cameo in the ORBIT Dance video adds to a growing list of unexpected appearances by Stray Kids members in dance-related content. Just a few months prior, fellow member Hyunjin surprised fans by popping up in a video featuring aespa’s Giselle, Ningning, and NCT’s Taeyong. His playful reaction upon realizing he was caught on camera only endeared him further to fans, showcasing the group’s playful camaraderie and willingness to support their peers in the industry.

@aespa_official

#ImtheDrama with #TAEYONG 🤘💫 #NCT #NCT127 #태용 #aespa #에스파 #GISELLE #지젤 #NINGNING #닝닝 #Drama #aespaDrama #shorts

♬ Drama – aespa

Overall, Bang Chan’s presence at the ORBIT Dance performance not only highlighted his genuine love for dance and appreciation for fellow artists but also served as a heartwarming reminder of the strong bonds shared within the K-pop community. As fans eagerly anticipate more surprise appearances and interactions between their favorite idols and talented performers, moments like these continue to unite fans and artists alike in their shared passion for music and dance.

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ITZY Members Launch Personal Instagram Accounts

ITZY shares behind-the-scene photo from filming 'Cake.' Credit: Facebook/ITZY

It’s official: all members of ITZY are now on Instagram! In celebration of their fifth debut anniversary, Yeji, Ryujin, Lia, Chaeryeong, and Yuna have launched their personal Instagram accounts.

ITZY Celebrates Fifth Debut Anniversary By Launching Personal Instagram Accounts

The decision of all five members of ITZY to join Instagram individually marks a significant moment for both the group and their fans. While the group’s official Instagram account serves as a platform for sharing group updates and promotions, the individual accounts provide a more personal and intimate connection between each member and their fans.

Opening individual Instagram accounts allows the ITZY members to express their unique personalities and interests outside of their group activities. It offers them a space to share personal moments, hobbies, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into their lives beyond the stage. This move not only enhances their accessibility to fans but also strengthens their individual brands and identities within the entertainment industry.

The ITZY members’ personal Instagram accounts are @yezyishere (Yeji), @iamfinethankyouandryu (Ryujin), @lia_loves___ (Lia), @chaerrry0 (Chaeryeong), and@igotyuandme (Yuna).

For fans, the launch of ITZY’s individual Instagram accounts represents an exciting opportunity to engage with their favorite members on a more personal level. It offers them a chance to interact directly with each member, express their support, and feel closer to the group as a whole. Fans can look forward to exclusive content, such as selfies, photoshoot outtakes, and candid snapshots, that showcase the members’ daily lives and personalities.

The decision to open individual Instagram accounts also reflects the growing importance of social media presence in the K-pop industry. In an age where digital engagement plays a crucial role in artists’ success, having a strong presence on platforms like Instagram allows idols to connect with fans worldwide, promote their activities, and expand their reach beyond traditional media channels.

Additionally, Lia’s decision to join Instagram despite her current hiatus due to health reasons demonstrates her commitment to staying connected with fans and maintaining her presence within the group. While Lia may be temporarily unable to participate in group activities, her presence on Instagram allows fans to continue supporting her and stay updated on her progress.

Overall, the launch of ITZY’s individual Instagram accounts signifies a new chapter in the group’s journey, offering fans a deeper insight into the lives of each member and strengthening their bond with the group. As ITZY continues to captivate audiences with their music and performances, their presence on Instagram will undoubtedly play a vital role in shaping their ongoing success and furthering their connection with fans around the world.

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Chung Ha Opens up on Leaving MNH Entertainment: ‘I Was Quite Naive’

MORE VISION releases new company photos of Chung Ha. Credit: Twitter/MORE VISION

Almost a year after leaving her former label MNH Entertainment, soloist Chung Ha opened up about her idol journey as she looked back on the challenging periods of her life. 

In her recent guest appearance on Eric Nam’s The Daebak Show, Chung Ha reminisced about her period as an independent artist after parting ways with MNH Entertainment and before joining Jay Park’s More Vision label.

For those unaware, the singer has been with MNH Entertainment since 2016. During her stay with her long-time label, she represented the agency in the survival talent series Produce 101. Through this show, Chung Ha debuted as part of the project girl group IOI after securing the fourth place. After the group’s disbandment, she debuted as a soloist in 2017. 

In April 2023, MNH Entertainment announced that the idol will be leaving their agency after seven years. At the time, the singer also penned a handwritten letter to her fans, apologizing that she didn’t keep them updated about her plans. 

During her interview with Eric Nam, the singer reflected on the changes she went through as she transitioned to an independent artist. To note, Chung Ha only moved to More Vision in October 2023. 

“After parting ways with my [former] company, I just had the freedom, I just had that time to make my own choices and just be a blank [slate],” she said. “I always belonged somewhere. I was always on schedule with my manager.”

 Furthermore, the singer admitted that she felt the urge to be “away” from constantly being managed at a “certain point” in her career. 

Chung Ha on healing, moving to More Vision

Since she’s used to having a manager, Chung Ha revealed that she struggled handling herself as an independent artist. “I didn’t know what to do when I was alone,” she recalled. “Even the small things, I didn’t know how to do it… I think I was quite naive and a bit vulnerable.”

Despite this, the singer shared that she approached this tough time with determination. “But I wanted to go through this wisely. I wanted to figure out that fragileness in me. So I wanted to overcome this in my way.” 

Moreover, the artist also shared that previous hectic schedule took a toll on her mental health. “I was exhausted,” she said. Additionally, the singer said that she even felt burnout when she was still actively promoting in her previous company. 

As she looks back on it now, Chung Ha shared that maintaining a positive mindset became essential for her. Aside from this, she also acknowledged how helpful it is to have strong friendships and a good strong support system. 

“It’s crucial to not shut down people… Don’t push back the people who come to you. Because there aren’t many people who do that. There are fewer than expected,” she said. 

Notably, this isn’t the first time that Chung Ha opened up about experiencing burn out. In a previous interview, she also expressed her gratitude to Jay Park, saying that he helped her reconsider her career choices. At the time, she recalled that she was planning to leave South Korea and focus on her studies. 

Currently, Chung Ha teased that she plans to return with new music in “early 2024.” Although there’s no official details yet, the comeback would serve as her first release since 2022. 

Featured image: MORE VISION releases new company photos of Chung Ha. Credit: Twitter/MORE VISION

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ENHYPEN, STAYC, and Shownu x Hyungwon to Release ‘Spotify Singles’

Spotify has big plans to celebrate the anniversary of K-Pop ON!, its flagship global K-pop playlist designed to help listeners discover and enjoy the best of the genre. The celebration will see the launch of a special series of Spotify Singles. The artists behind these singles are ENHYPEN, SHOWNU X HYUNGWON (of MONSTA X), and STAYC, centered around the theme of “My First K-Pop Crush.” 

These singles will include covers of songs by their sunbaes (senior artists) that first ignited their passion for K-pop. In that sense, these singles aren’t just a tribute to fans’ and artists’ journeys into the genre. They’re also an invitation for K-pop stans worldwide to celebrate the artists who pioneered it.

The Spotify Singles for the K-Pop ON! First Crush campaign are set to be released exclusively on Spotify every two weeks, starting with ENHYPEN’s single on February 16. This will be followed by SHOWNU X HYUNGWON’s single on February 29, and STAYC’s release on March 15. Here’s what one of the High Up Entertainment girl group’s members has said about their track.

Spotify to offer ‘exclusive bonus content’

In addition to the music, Spotify is offering a series of exclusive bonus content on its K-Pop ON! Video Podcast and YouTube channels. This content will range from performance videos to behind-the-scenes looks. Each piece of content will allow fans to delve into the stories of the artists’ first K-pop crushes. ENHYPEN, SHOWNU X HYUNGWON, and STAYC will discuss their song choices. They’ll also reveal how their sunbaes inspired their own journeys in K-pop.

Jungjoo Park, Korea Head of Music at Spotify, expressed excitement about the campaign, stating, “Beyond the celebration of our commitment to helping K-pop travel the globe and connecting Korean artists with fans and new audiences, Spotify’s K-Pop ON! First Crush campaign is also a powerful expression of how K-pop touches lives, spreads positivity, and unites listeners regardless of where they are from or the language they speak.” 

The initiative is part of Spotify’s ongoing efforts to drive discovery and bring K-pop to its global audience. Since its launch in 2014, the K-Pop ON! playlist has been “saved” by over 5.3 million Spotify users worldwide and has generated billions of streams for Korean artists, significantly expanding the genre’s reach beyond regional boundaries, languages, and cultures. The number of yearly streams from the playlist has seen a staggering 5647 percent increase globally since 2015. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: We can’t wait to hear these songs! Source: Spotify Newsroom.

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