Category: KPOP NEWS

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Go_U Leaving BLITZERS Due to Health Issues

BLITZERS’ Go_U is set to depart from the group due to ongoing health issues, as announced by WUZO Entertainment on January 29. The agency revealed that Go_U has been dealing with health problems since the previous year, leading to the decision for him to exit the group.

BLITZERS Member Go_U Departs Due to Health Issues

The departure of a member from BLITZERS due to health concerns raises concerns about the toll that the demanding entertainment industry can take on artists. It’s not uncommon for K-pop idols to face health challenges as they navigate busy schedules and the pressure associated with their careers.

“Go_U has stopped promoting since April 2023 due to his health and has focused on rest and recovering. During this time, we spoke with Go_U about his future in the entertainment industry. After careful deliberation, we have decided that Go_U will be ending his promotions with BLITZERS to focus on recovering his health.”

The departure is a reminder of the importance of prioritizing artists’ well-being and providing the necessary support and resources for their physical and mental health. The intense training, promotional activities, and rigorous schedules in the K-pop industry can contribute to health issues, and it’s crucial for agencies to ensure that their artists have access to adequate healthcare and the opportunity to address health concerns without compromising their careers.

WUZO Entertainment expressed gratitude to fans for their ongoing support, acknowledging the impact of fandom encouragement during challenging times. As BLITZERS moves forward with the remaining members, fans will likely continue to support both Go_U in his health journey and the group as they navigate changes within the lineup.

The departure of a member from BLITZERS due to health reasons emphasizes the need for a holistic approach to artist management, ensuring that the physical and mental well-being of idols remains a top priority. As K-pop groups continue to rise to global prominence, the industry’s stakeholders must address the challenges faced by artists to sustain their long-term health and success.

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SEVENTEEN Photocards Help Increase Korean Blood Donations

The Seoul Southern Blood Center of the Korean Red Cross has found a unique way to encourage blood donations by tapping into the popularity of K-pop group SEVENTEEN. Starting on January 12, affiliated blood centers in Seoul offered SEVENTEEN photocards as an additional incentive for blood donors, along with the existing perks of gift certificates and hamburger set exchange vouchers.

SEVENTEEN Photocards Boost Korean Blood Donations in Seoul

The response to the SEVENTEEN photocards incentive was nothing short of remarkable. During the event, new blood donors increased by an impressive 68.8%, and in comparison to the same period the previous year, the overall number of blood donors saw a remarkable 80.6% increase. Notably, the age group most likely to be SEVENTEEN fans—individuals in their teens and 20s—saw an 81.7% increase in blood donations.

The success of this initiative highlights the potential impact of utilizing popular K-pop groups to promote social causes. SEVENTEEN’s widespread popularity among the youth played a crucial role in motivating new and younger donors to participate in blood donation drives. The inclusion of SEVENTEEN photocards as an additional incentive showcased a keen understanding of the target demographic’s preferences.

The group poses with their trophies after the MAMA Awards 2023. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

The Korean Red Cross initially prepared 1,000 SEVENTEEN photocards for the event, anticipating a positive response. However, due to overwhelming demand and success, they found it necessary to order more photocards to meet the growing interest. The incorporation of K-pop fandom culture into healthcare initiatives not only fosters a sense of community engagement but also serves as a creative approach to addressing blood shortages.

This innovative strategy demonstrates the potential for collaboration between entertainment and public health organizations to achieve shared goals. By aligning incentives with the interests of specific demographics, such initiatives can contribute to raising awareness and participation in essential public health initiatives like blood donation.

The success of the SEVENTEEN photocards incentive in Seoul’s blood donation centers suggests the possibility of expanding similar campaigns to other regions, leveraging the influence of K-pop fandoms to make a positive impact on public health initiatives.

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Lee Hyori Reacts to ITZY Yuna’s ‘U-Go-Girl’ Cover

It’s been several weeks since Yuna went viral with her cover of the Lee Hyori hit “U-Go-Girl” but the original artist has finally shared her thoughts about it. Not surprisingly, the always-outspoken soloist had an interesting reaction to the ITZY member’s cover.

ITZY Charms Lee Hyori with Iconic Covers on “The Seasons: Red Carpet”

In the latest episode of “The Seasons: Red Carpet with Lee Hyori,” the four members of ITZY took the stage and delivered captivating performances of Lee Hyori’s greatest hits. The interaction between the rookie girl group and the iconic K-pop queen provided moments of laughter, admiration, and genuine appreciation.

One notable highlight of the episode was Yuna’s cover of Lee Hyori’s “U-Go-Girl” during the 2022 KBS Song Festival. The performance went viral, showcasing Yuna’s incredible stage presence and captivating charm. However, when the topic came up during the show, Lee Hyori playfully expressed that Yuna’s cover was “annoying.” The comment sparked laughter among the members of ITZY and the audience.

Clarifying her lighthearted remark, Lee Hyori explained that she found it “annoying” in a positive sense. She meant that Yuna had taken the song and made it completely hers, showcasing her unique style and interpretation. Yuna, on the other hand, insisted that the song was not hers at all, displaying humility in acknowledging the influence and inspiration she drew from Lee Hyori.

Yuna Grateful for Lee Hyori Hit

Amid the playful banter, Yuna expressed her gratitude to Lee Hyori for the iconic song. Lee Hyori, in turn, continued the humor by teasing Yuna once again. The dynamic between the senior artist and the junior group created an entertaining atmosphere, highlighting the camaraderie and mutual respect within the K-pop industry.

Lee Hyori, acknowledging the tradition of hoobae idols covering her greatest hits, thanked Yuna and other junior artists for recreating her songs. The exchange showcased the interconnectedness and support within the K-pop community, where artists of different generations come together to celebrate and appreciate each other’s contributions.

The episode served as a delightful fusion of past and present, with Lee Hyori’s timeless hits receiving fresh interpretations from the vibrant members of ITZY. The performance and interactions on “The Seasons: Red Carpet” highlighted the continuity and evolution of K-pop, creating memorable moments for fans and artists alike.

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NCT’s Jaemin Teases Silver Hair Comeback

It’s still unclear if NCT Dream is preparing for a comeback but Jaemin may have teased at the possibility. The NCT member offered a glimpse at the return of his silver hair in his latest social media post.

Jaemin Teases Return to Silver Hair: NCTzens Excited for New Look

Jaemin of NCT DREAM has sent fans into a frenzy with a sneak peek at his upcoming hair transformation. The idol, who recently sported dark brown hair after a stint with pastel pink for the group’s comeback, teased a return to his iconic silver hair through a photo shared on his Instagram story.

In the image, Jaemin is seen with strands of pale blond hair partially covering his face, hinting at a shift towards a lighter and possibly silver hair color. NCTzens, the dedicated fanbase of NCT, immediately expressed their excitement and anticipation for Jaemin’s new look. The idol has garnered attention not only for his vocal and dance abilities but also for his striking visuals, and any change in his hairstyle becomes a notable event for fans.

Jaemin’s experimentation with hair colors has been a source of fascination for NCTzens, with each transformation showcasing his versatility and ability to pull off various looks. From the soft pastel pink to the natural dark brown, the idol has effortlessly adapted to different styles, keeping fans eagerly awaiting his next change.

NCT Dream, the third sub-unit of NCT under SM Entertainment, has been making waves in the K-pop scene. Known for their dynamic performances and youthful energy, the group has consistently delivered hit songs and garnered a dedicated global fanbase. Their latest comeback in July 2023 with the studio album “ISTJ” further solidified their position in the industry.

Jaemin’s return to silver hair adds an element of excitement for fans, who appreciate not only the musical prowess of NCT Dream but also the individuality expressed through their distinct styles. As the full reveal of Jaemin’s new hair color approaches, NCTzens are ready to embrace and celebrate the idol’s ever-evolving aesthetics.

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NCT’s Taeyong Set for Exciting Solo Comeback This February

NCT‘s Taeyong has a lot in store for fans this month. Following his solo debut in 2023, the NCT 127 leader is set to release his second solo album on February 26. This album is a labor of love. Taeyong put his heart and soul into it, aiming to record something that truly reflects his feelings and identity. 

Before the album drops, Taeyong will meet his fans at his first solo concert, 2024 TAEYONG CONCERT <TY TRACK>, on February 24 and 25 at Seoul’s Olympic Hall. Located in Olympic Park and built for the 1988 Seoul Olympics, it’s known for its excellent acoustics. This notable venue offers Taeyong a platform where he can showcase his talents in dancing and singing, and also connect with his audience on a more personal level. This concert is expected to draw enthusiastic responses from fans worldwide.

Fans should stay tuned to NCT’s official social media accounts for detailed information on ticket reservations for this highly-anticipated concert.

태용 ‘샤랄라 (SHALALA)’ MV

Taeyong will showcase his growth

Taeyong’s journey as a soloist began in March 2021 when he launched a SoundCloud account. His self-composed demo singles “Dark Clouds,” along with its remix, were his first solo releases. He bagged the Top Comments Award at the SoundCloud 2021 Playback Awards for “Dark Clouds.” More demo singles followed, such as “GTA1,” “GTA2,” “Blue,” “Monroe,” “Rose,” and “Swimming Pool.”

In March 2022, Taeyong collaborated with Suran on the song “Diamond” from her EP Flyin’ Part 1. He also launched his YouTube channel, TY Track, releasing performance videos for some of his tracks. His solo career progressed with the release of “Love Theory,” a collaboration with Wonstein through SM STATION.

June 2023 marked a significant milestone in Taeyong’s career, as he made his official debut as a soloist with his EP, SHALALA. This established him as the first soloist from NCT. His upcoming solo comeback and concert will showcase his growth as an artist and deepen his connection with NCTzens. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This is good news for Taeyong-biased NCTzens! Sources: X/@Leetaeyongbase, X/@neocoffeetime.

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Lovelyz’ Sujeong Teams Up With XYLØ for Dark Pop Collab

Ryu Sujeong is venturing into new musical territory by collaborating with American singer XYLØ on her second EP, 2ROX. Its title is a combination of “R” for Ryu Sujeong and “OX” for XYLØ, with the “2” representing the work they did together. This “dark pop” collaboration marks a significant shift for Sujeong. She’s best known for her work with Lovelyz, a K-pop girl group whose discography is predominantly composed of brighter fare.

“Dark pop” is a subgenre of pop music characterized by its moodier, more introspective, and often melancholic tone, compared to mainstream pop music. This genre combines elements of pop with darker, more experimental themes and sounds. These can include elements of electronic, indie, and alternative music, often resulting in a sound that’s both catchy and haunting.

류수정(Ryu Sujeong) ‘Fallen Angel (feat. XYLØ)’ M/V

Sujeong expressed her enthusiasm for this genre during a recent sit-down with the media. “Dark pop songs boost my mood in a different way than bright songs do. I’ve been enjoying the genre for a while, so I wanted to release an album in the dark pop genre,” she said.

Sujeong herself reached out to XYLØ, driven by her desire to reach a global audience. “My career has been focused on Korean audiences. I wanted overseas listeners to discover my music, so I worked with an American artist. XYLØ replied saying she, as a K-pop listener, also wanted to be part of the collaboration and join the genre. We have a lot in common as artists. We both like having a hip mood on the outside but also have a contrasting lovely mood in our inner minds.”

Sujeong remains true to her roots

Despite venturing into the dark pop genre, Sujeong remains true to her roots. She was involved in the writing and production of all three tracks on the EP, infusing them with her signature innocent, lovely, and girly vibes. “It’s dark pop, but you’ll still be able to feel my underlying soft, cloudy-like nature,” she said.

The EP has three songs: “BADGRLS (feat. XYLØ),” with lyrics co-written by Sujeong; “SHXT (feat. XYLØ),” and “Fallen Angel (feat. XYLØ).” “SHXT” is an upbeat, kitschy track influenced by high-teen dramas of the 90s and 00s. “Fallen Angel” is a gloomy, sentimental song about the pain of lovers who only hurt each other.

류수정(Ryu Sujeong) ‘SHXT (feat. XYLØ)’ Track Video (2ROX Ver.)

Sujeong also talked about Lovelyz, which is approaching its 10-year anniversary. The members remain close and supportive of each other’s individual endeavors. They’ve discussed releasing an album or holding a concert to celebrate the milestone, though coordinating their busy schedules remains a challenge.

Looking ahead, Sujeong plans to release more songs, whether as digital singles or full-length albums. She hopes to attract more international fans and possibly participate in music festivals abroad. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Sujeong boldly went where no Lovelyz member has gone before. Good for her! Source: X/@zzzlovelyz.

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Jimin’s Dior Campaign Surpasses 700M USD in Revenue

BTS’s Jimin significantly boosted Dior’s sales in South Korea since becoming one of the luxury fashion house’s global brand ambassadors on January 16, 2023. According to the South Korean business magazine Economist, Dior’s revenue in South Korea crossed 1 trillion KRW (about 746 million USD) by the end of that year. This marked the first time its annual sales soared past the 1 trillion KRW mark since Dior entered the South Korean market in 1997. It was a notable increase from less than 100 billion KRW in 2017.

@dior

It’s a dose of London cool calling with Global Ambassador Jimin. #DiorSpring24

♬ original sound – Dior

A record high

This surge was somewhat expected, as Dior’s 2022 sales had already reached 930.5 billion KRW, a 52% increase from its 2021 sales, which were at 613.9 billion KRW. Dior’s operating profit also rose significantly during this period, going from 211.5 billion KRW to 323.8 billion KRW. It’s now the third global luxury brand to have crossed the 1 trillion KRW annual sales mark in South Korea, after Louis Vuitton and Chanel. Industry insiders say Dior celebrated this achievement by giving nearly all its employees bags from its own line. However, company management hasn’t confirmed this.

Jimin’s impact as Dior’s global brand ambassador is undeniable. The extensive campaign featuring him as the face of Dior Men’s Spring 2024 collection enjoyed widespread visibility, with fans documenting over 80 sightings of his ads worldwide. The campaign’s success was evident as the pieces he wore in the ads quickly sold out. Fans also snapped up other Dior items like bags and earrings. Remarkably, the hefty price tags didn’t deter ARMYs from showing support for Jimin and his new endorsement.

Speaking of prices, Dior’s stock price hit a record high of 789 EUR per share soon after he became an ambassador. His impact was also felt on social media—the hashtag #DIORxJIMIN and unboxing videos with Dior products went viral on various platforms. Additionally, the influencer marketing platform Lefty noted that two of the idol’s posts about Dior generated a media value of 17 million USD. Jimin was also the top influencer at the 2023/2024 Paris Fashion Week, contributing 54% to Dior’s Earned Media Value (EMV). Dior led the brand ranking with an EMV of 31.5 million USD.

@ashleyjune77

I am so obsessed with my new Dior star tag!! I want one now for every bag I own! Jimin is so cute for doing this and I love his creativity ✨🥰 my Jimin bubble locket keychain is from my favorite @Pastel Renaissance🫧🎀💕 !! 💖

♬ original sound – Ashley June 💜

The Jimin effect

Jimin’s impact went beyond advertising; he once sparked a new fashion trend among his followers involving Dior’s star tags. On November 23, he and his BTS bandmate Jungkook flew to Japan for work. At the airport, Jimin was seen wearing a beret cap, an oversized jacket, and Dior’s cross-body Hit the Road Bag with Strap. Fans noticed that there were two star-shaped charms hanging from the bag’s strap, adding a distinctive flair to it. This detail inspired fans to start collecting Dior star tags themselves, using them to decorate their bags as a way to express their love for Jimin.

That trip to Japan culminated in a memorable moment that further highlighted his influence. He posed for a photo in front of a Dior boutique, which fans later identified as the Ginza Six store in Tokyo. When he posted the photo on Instagram, it sparked a global movement of sorts. Fans worldwide embarked on a quest to find and pose for photos at Dior stores in their area, aiming to replicate Jimin’s iconic photo.

This phenomenon underscores the “Jimin effect”—his ability to turn everyday moments into trendsetting movements, significantly boosting Dior’s brand appeal and success. Given that, it’s safe to say 2023 wouldn’t have been a banner year for the brand if it weren’t for him. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The “Jimin effect” propelled Dior to such great heights in 2023. Source: Instagram/@dior.

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HYBE Opens In-House Healthcare Center for Artists, Employees

HYBE, the entertainment agency behind BTS, SEVENTEEN, and others, has taken a groundbreaking step by establishing a healthcare center for its artists and staff. On January 25, the company announced the opening of this center within its 19-story office building in Yongsan, central Seoul. This initiative isn’t HYBE’s first effort to ensure the well-being of its people. HYBE has had a clinic since 2022, where an in-house nurse offered basic medication and consultations. Now, the company has kicked things up a notch.

The newly expanded healthcare center at HYBE now includes an additional nurse and an in-house doctor. HYBE artists and staff have access to a range of services, including prescription medications and emergency care. The facility has several specialized treatment rooms, one of which is specifically designated for trauma care. It also has a recovery room equipped for physical and heat therapy, an intravenous therapy room designed for fatigue recovery, and consultation rooms.

Dr. Kim Jun-ok, the new in-house doctor at the center, brings a unique skill set to HYBE. He’s a mental health professional who’s qualified to provide psychiatric treatment. He can also handle primary care for external and internal ailments. Best of all, he’s a musician with an extensive background in composition theory and orchestral conducting. This combination of medical and musical knowledge enables him to understand the unique challenges faced by those in the entertainment industry, whether they’re artists or part of the staff. His insight will be invaluable in providing top-tier care.

@thequeendarlah

HYBE Makes History: Unveils In-House Mini Hospital for Employees and artists Health!😱🤩✨️ #HallyuTalkPH #TiktoktainmentPH #EntertainmentPH

♬ Lo-fi hip hop – NAO-K

HYBE could establish a new benchmark

The healthcare center is open to all HYBE staff, trainees, and artists. It’s the first of its kind in the industry, representing a proactive response to the health-related hiatuses taken by K-pop artists, including those from HYBE and other agencies.

The fact that HYBE expanded its healthcare center could establish a new benchmark for artist welfare in the industry. This move highlights the importance of healthcare in a sector often criticized for overlooking mental and physical health. It could encourage other agencies to implement similar initiatives, leading to a shift in how the industry prioritizes the overall well-being of its artists and staff.

Moreover, having on-site healthcare centers may lead to a decrease in the length and number of breaks taken for health reasons. Easy access to quality healthcare means early detection and treatment of health problems, leading to quicker recoveries and less time away from the stage. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: HYBE’s new in-house healthcare center may just be the beginning. Sources: Daum, HYBE.

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BTS K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS ARMY Reacts to Rumored Leak of Jungkook’s Military Diary

On January 20, the BTS fan community was rocked by news involving Jungkook, the group’s golden maknae. Jungkook, who enlisted in the South Korean military under the buddy system alongside bandmate Jimin, found himself at the center of an alleged privacy breach scandal.

A netizen using the handle @DavyWer claimed on X (formerly Twitter) that a senior member of Jungkook’s military unit had leaked the idol’s military diary on Instagram. This diary, supposedly intended for an internal Korean military platform, wasn’t meant for public consumption. The netizen explained they found out about the leak through a friend from South Korea. They added that the senior responsible for it could face arrest and reprimand under military law.

X/@DavyWer

The senior’s intention for leaking the diary, whether malicious or otherwise, remains unknown. However, BTS fans, known for being fiercely protective of the members, have expressed concerns about Jungkook’s safety during his military service. The incident has sparked a broader discussion about the privacy of celebrities in general. It has also led to calls for restraint in sharing military-related content featuring celebrities, citing potential risks to their well-being.

Did Jungkook actually keep a diary?

However, some ARMYs suspect @DavyWer’s story is fake—as is the diary allegedly belonging to Jungkook. They raised doubts about its authenticity, noting that it’s not handwritten and questioning its style and tone. This skepticism has led to the belief that it could have been written by anyone, as it doesn’t actually sound like the “Standing Next to You” singer wrote it.

It’s important to note that South Korean men serving in the military are not required to keep diaries to be uploaded to a military platform. Military service in South Korea, mandatory for all male citizens, encompasses a variety of duties determined by the service branch and whether the duty is active or non-active. But keeping a diary isn’t part of these duties. This lends credence to the theory that @DavyWer’s story might actually be fake.

@hieroglyphs1

I can’t stop laughing #fyp #jungkook

♬ الصوت الأصلي – 🏛️A🏛️

This incident is not the first time rumors have circulated about Jungkook. Fans hope that he can complete his military service peacefully and without further unwarranted attention. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: News of the leak upset ARMYs until they realized it may be a hoax. Source: Weverse.

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NewJeans’ Minji Ascends as Global Ambassador for CHANEL

Minji of NewJeans has taken on the prestigious role of a house ambassador for CHANEL, marking her as the global ambassador for the luxury brand. The announcement follows Minji’s earlier appointment as the brand ambassador for South Korea in the previous year, where she actively participated in various CHANEL campaigns and events.

NewJeans’ Minji Becomes Global Ambassador for CHANEL

As a house ambassador for CHANEL, Minji joins the league of global representatives for the iconic fashion house. The term “house ambassador” signifies her role as a global ambassador, representing CHANEL on an international scale. This recognition emphasizes Minji’s influence and standing in the fashion industry, as well as her ability to resonate with a diverse audience.

Last year, Minji made waves when she was initially selected as the brand ambassador for CHANEL in South Korea. Her association with the luxury brand was also marked by her appearances in CHANEL campaigns, showcasing her captivating presence and style. The upgrade to a house ambassador signifies the strengthening of the partnership between Minji and CHANEL, recognizing her as a key figure in the global promotion of the brand.

It’s noteworthy that each member of NewJeans has secured global ambassador roles with different luxury brands, showcasing the group’s widespread influence and individual members’ impact in the fashion and beauty realms. Hanni represents GUCCI and Armani Beauty, Danielle is associated with Burberry and YSL Beauty, Haerin is a representative for Dior Joaillerie, and Hyein serves as the house ambassador for Louis Vuitton.

The members of NewJeans continue to make strides in the fashion and beauty industry, establishing themselves as influential figures and ambassadors for renowned brands. Minji’s new role as a house ambassador for CHANEL not only highlights her success but also contributes to the collective achievement of NewJeans as a group with global recognition. The diverse roles undertaken by each member also demonstrate their versatility and impact within the realm of luxury fashion and beauty.

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