Category: KPOP NEWS

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

JYP, SM, YG Entertainment Unveil 2024 Plans

K-Pop

Before HYBE became a major player in the K-pop industry, its growth was mainly driven by three agencies: JYP Entertainment, SM Entertainment, and YG Entertainment. Here’s what these agencies have planned for fans this year.

TWICE “With YOU-th” Mood Film

JYP’s global dominance

JYP Entertainment is set to continue its global dominance in 2024, with its top groups Stray Kids and TWICE at the forefront. Stray Kids, having achieved four consecutive Billboard 200 number ones, will drop two new albums and embark on their third world tour. TWICE, as one of the biggest girl groups around, will make a comeback in February with their 13th EP With YOU-th. They’ll drop a pre-release single on February 2, and the EP itself will follow on February 23.

Aside from preparing for DAY6’s full group comeback, JYP is reportedly working to debut a new boy group. The agency is also set to launch groups born of international collaborations. NEXZ, from Nizi Project season two with Sony Music Japan, and VCHA, from the A2K project with Republic Records, will begin promoting in 2024. Finally, JYP’s partnership with Live Nation for North American performances will give its artists a big platform in the world’s largest music market.

2024 SM GLOBAL AUDITION

SM remains optimistic

In 2024, SM Entertainment’s artists will broaden their reach through diverse channels. The rookie group RIIZE, which has grown in popularity since its debut, is leading the charge. NCT is expected to continue their activities seamlessly despite the anticipated enlistment of some members. SM’s plan is to strengthen its global presence through major performances. These include Key’s solo concert, NCT 127’s third tour, SMTOWN LIVE in Tokyo Dome, and Ten’s first solo concert.

SM is also planning to launch new artists, starting with aespa’s yet-to-be-named sister group. The final team of the NCT system, the Japan-based NCT NEW TEAM, is set to debut after a wildly successful pre-debut tour in Japan.

Despite facing challenges like a change in ownership and an ongoing stock probe, SM achieved record earnings last year. However, its market leadership has weakened, and its revenue heavily depends on loyal fanbases. Even so, SM remains optimistic. In fact, the agency is planning a global audition in 2024 to discover new talent, demonstrating its focus on continued growth and innovation.

BABYMONSTER NEXT PHASE | YG Announcement

YG plans to go all-in

In 2024, YG Entertainment plans to go all-in on promoting BABYMONSTER, with a focus on global expansion. BABYMONSTER will release their second single “Stuck In The Middle” this February, followed by a mini-album in April. The group plans to build a strong industry presence by releasing new music every two months.

YG is also ramping up activities with its other groups. AKMU, celebrating its 10th anniversary, has something special planned for fans. BLACKPINK will continue promoting as a group under YG, but Jennie and Jisoo signed with other agencies for solo activities. Lisa and Rosé are expected to follow suit, but no official announcement has been made yet. Meanwhile, boy group TREASURE is expected to maintain a strong presence in Japan and Korea.

Which of these three agencies do you think will make the biggest splash this year? – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: JYP, SM, and YG have big things up their sleeves. Source: Icon Ape, Top PNG.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Former ‘Produce 48’ Contestant Kojima Mako Marries Japanese Actor Kido Yuya

Former Produce 48 contestant Kojima Mako has tied the knot! She took to Instagram to announce her marriage to actor Kido Yuya, whom she has been dating for some time. 

Mako wrote, “To all of our supporters and everyone involved, I have some sudden news to share. I am pleased to announce that I have entered into marriage with the actor Kido Yuya. We’re both still immature, but we’re grateful for this encounter and aim to build a happy home filled with smiles. We’d appreciate your warm support and understanding.”

She continued, “We’ll continue to cherish the gratitude we feel towards everyone who supports us, and we will strive to further dedicate ourselves to our endeavors. We kindly ask for your continued support in the future.”

Mako’s journey in entertainment began when she joined AKB48 in 201 as part of the Japanese idol group’s 14th generation. Her rise within AKB48 was marked by her promotion to Team 4 and subsequent transfer to Team K. In 2014, she participated in the title track of their 35th single, “Mae Shika Mukanee.” Five years later, she announced graduation during a concert at Tokyo Dome City Hall. Her last performance with the group was held at the AKB48 Theater on May 12, 2019.

코지마 마코 – AOA ♬단발머리_1조 @그룹 배틀 

Best wishes, Mako and Yuya!

On the Mnet survival show Produce 48, Mako was known for her close friendships with Choi Yena (IZ*ONE), Kim Shi Hyun (EVERGLOW), and Kim Min Seo. She struggled with Korean lyrics but did her best to perform well. She made it through one round of competition, the Group Battle, where she sang “Short Hair” by AOA. Her time on the show ended in episode 8, with her elimination following the Position Evaluation.

코지마 마코 – Fitz&The Tantrums ♬HandClap @댄스_포지션 평가

Post-AKB48, Mako ventured into fashion, launching her own clothing brand, Haluhiroine. She also started a YouTube channel, the mako channel, soon after her departure from the group.

Her husband, Kido Yuya, won the Special Jury Award at the 19th Junon Superboy Contest in 2006. He has starred in dramas like Ore no Skirt, Doko Itta?, as well as musicals and stage plays like Joker Game and Musical: Tennis no Oujisama.

Best wishes, Mako and Yuya! – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The two had been dating for a while before deciding to get married. Sources: X/@CTH_48 and X/@sarcastear.

Categories
BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

How HYBE Will Handle BTS’s Absence in 2024

HYBE redefined the K-pop landscape when it solidified its position in the ‘Big Four’—the four largest and most influential entertainment companies in the South Korean music industry. All eyes are on HYBE now as it’s getting ready to navigate a year without BTS, its top-selling act.

In 2023, BTS‘s album sales, including the members’ solo projects, constituted 22% of HYBE’s total album sales, underscoring the group’s pivotal role in the company’s revenue stream. With all BTS members in the military, Yuanta Securities is projecting a 0.4% decrease in HYBE’s annual sales for 2024. To mitigate this, HYBE is diversifying its focus to other artists in its stable.

On-point: How will 2024 K-pop scene look without BTS?

Among these artists, SEVENTEEN is set to embark on a stadium tour in January 2024. Meanwhile, ENHYPEN, fromis_9, and &TEAM are preparing for both domestic and international concerts. Other groups such as LE SSERAFIM, NewJeans, and TXT are expected to maintain their active presence in the music scene both domestically and internationally. Fans are also eagerly anticipating the return of BTS members Jin and j-hope to the music industry after they’re discharged from the military.

This month, PLEDIS Entertainment, a label under the HYBE umbrella, will debut TWS. This highly-anticipated group marks PLEDIS’s first new boy group since the debut of SEVENTEEN. TWS‘s first EP is scheduled for release on January 22. Additionally, two more groups are set to make their debut in the first half of the year: I’LL-IT, formed through JTBC’s show R U NEXT?, and KATSEYE, created through The Debut: Dream Academy.

HYBE is poised for success in 2024

HYBE is also focusing on its fan community platform and intellectual property (IP). Weverse, which serves as a space for fans to connect with artists, is undergoing functional improvements. It’s also looking to add more artists from Japan, Korea, and the US. The company is also planning to continue its foray into webtoons with new releases, such as the sequel to ENHYPEN’s Dark Moon: The Altar of the Moon. HYBE IPX plans to expand with pop-up stores and continue its urban concert play park project, “The City.”

Binary Korea, a HYBE subsidiary, is teaming up with Sandbox Network to launch a creator-centric fan community platform soon. Additionally, HYBE IM, with a focus on gaming, is poised to release the full version of ASTRA: Knights of Veda in the first quarter. Superton, an AI audio company under HYBE, is developing advanced AI voice solutions for gaming. This indicates HYBE’s ambition to establish a strong foothold in the AI audio industry.

[ASTRA: Knights of Veda] The beginning of the journey.

In line with global market trends, HYBE is adopting more international strategies. Bang Si-hyuk, HYBE’s Chairman, has emphasized the need for K-pop to evolve beyond its traditional boundaries. This evolution is reflected in the recent releases from HYBE artists like Jungkook, LE SSERAFIM, and NewJeans. They had more English lyrics and introduced creative variations to classic K-pop elements, such as intricate choreography.

With a focus on nurturing new groups, enhancing digital platforms, and developing innovative content, HYBE is poised for success in 2024 and beyond. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: HYBE is pulling out all the stops to ensure its continued success despite BTS’s absence. Source: HYBE, PEOPLE.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ENHYPEN’s Jake Addresses Starbucks Incident on Weverse Live

ENHYPEN member Jake recently faced backlash after being seen drinking from a Starbucks cup during a live broadcast earlier this month.

@hyeinlurve

#jake #enhypen #enha #jakeenhypen #starbucks🤮 . . . . . jake drinking starbucks, his apology❤️‍🩹

♬ love maze – ulan

What did Jake do?

The issue with Starbucks began when it took legal action against its own workers’ union. This union had expressed support for Palestine, and Starbucks’ decision to sue them for doing so sparked controversy. The company, known for its liberal, progressive image, faced criticism for what appeared to be a lack of support for a humanitarian cause. Consequently, many people in the U.S. started boycotting Starbucks, criticizing the company for not standing with the oppressed and for suing its employees over their social media posts.

Starbucks has since issued a statement denying any political affiliations. The company also refuted claims that it is pro-Israel or involved in funding the conflict in Gaza. Additionally, Starbucks clarified that it has no branches in either Gaza or Israel.

When fans saw Jake’s Starbucks cup, they left comments on his live broadcast. Some told him not to buy Starbucks anymore “as it sponsors massacres in Gaza.” Others demanded that he apologize and educate himself. Jake noticed their comments and transferred his drink into a glass cup, but that did little to quell the backlash. He eventually decided to put his drink away altogether.

Later, he left a comment on a fan’s Weverse post about the incident. He apologized and promised ENGENEs it wouldn’t happen again. 

@enniskey

Starbucks Just Lost $11B Because of ONE Tweet!! 😱💸 #starbucks #israel #palestine #boycottstarbucks

♬ original sound – Ennis Dakhil

K-netizens react

While international fans were pleased with the idol’s apology, K-netizens weren’t. They argued that Jake‘s actions shouldn’t be linked to the global boycott because Starbucks Korea operates independently from its American counterpart, Starbucks Coffee Company.

Starbucks Korea started as a 50/50 joint venture in 1999, co-owned by Shinsegae Group’s E-Mart Inc. and Starbucks Coffee Company. In 2021, Starbucks Coffee Company sold its entire 50% share. This increased E-Mart Inc.’s ownership to 67.5% as they acquired an additional 17.5%. GIC Private Limited, Singapore’s sovereign wealth fund, snapped up the remaining 32.5%. Understanding this is key to grasping Starbucks’ operations in different international markets.

K-netizens also noted that international fans are quick to criticize idols over such issues but often remain silent on other matters, like Korea’s historical and territorial disputes with Japan. This indicates that K-netizens believe international fans partake in selective activism, not fully comprehending all relevant issues.

Jake isn’t the only artist who has faced criticism for patronizing Starbucks. In December 2023, Jeon Somi received immense backlash for a video in which she was seen sipping from a Starbucks cup, leading to the closure of several of her largest fan sites. Although Somi didn’t publicly address the issue, she silently removed the video from her TikTok account. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The backlash Jake received was intense. Source: X/@strawbeery_kidz.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

THE BLACK LABEL Reportedly Separating From YG Entertainment

In a strategic move within the entertainment industry, THE BLACK LABEL is making a surprising change. A new report reveals that the prominent music label and production company is set to relocate its main office to Hannam W Office, situated in Hannam-dong, Yongsan-gu, Seoul. This transition, scheduled for the first half of 2024 and potentially as early as next month, marks a significant shift from its longstanding headquarters at the YG Entertainment office in Hapjeong-dong, where it has been based since its establishment in 2016.

Why Is THE BLACK LABEL Moving From YG Entertainment?

The decision to relocate gained approval during a board meeting held by THE BLACK LABEL in June 2023, signifying a pivotal moment in the company’s evolution. Industry insiders perceive this move as a strategic step towards independence, indicating a potential separation from YG Entertainment.

Initially founded by Park Hong Joon, widely known as Teddy Park, the label started as an external record production company collaborating primarily with YG artists. However, recent developments highlight the label’s inclination to diversify its activities, evidenced by the recruitment of various artists and the initiation of auditions to unearth new talents.

The ownership structure further illuminates this transition. In the early stages, YG Entertainment was THE BLACK LABEL’s major shareholder, but the current scenario reflects a reduced stake of approximately 21%. Concurrently, SAEHAN Venture Capital, an initial investor, has been steadily increasing its ownership since 2021. Lee Jung Hoo, the CEO of SAEHAN and an external director at THE BLACK LABEL, plays a pivotal role in steering the label towards independence.

The relocation aligns with THE BLACK LABEL’s broader vision of expansion. Following the move, the company is anticipated to seek additional investments from venture capitalists as part of its strategic plan to recruit new artists and extend its business ventures. Currently, the company boasts a roster of diverse talents, including Zion.T, Jeon So Mi, Taeyang, Park Bo Gum, Lee Jong Won, and more.

This significant shift in office location not only underscores the label’s commitment to growth and autonomy but also signals a new chapter in THE BLACK LABEL’s journey within the ever-evolving landscape of the Korean entertainment industry. As it positions itself for further expansion and innovation, the relocation becomes a symbolic and strategic move, reflecting the dynamic nature of the music business.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

LE SSERAFIM’s Sakura Knits Special Present for Yoon Do Hyun’s Dog

Sakura has given a music legend a truly special present. On January 12 KST, Yoon Do Hyun, the lead singer of the rock band YB, took to social media to share heartwarming photos of his beloved dog Bongbong, adorned in a custom-made knitted hat and scarf. The singer expressed his gratitude to the LE SSERAFIM member for the thoughtful handmade gifts.

Yoon Do Hyun Unveils Sakura’s Special Present

The pictures showcased Bongbong looking utterly adorable in the snugly fitted hat and scarf, capturing the attention and admiration of fans. Yoon Do Hyun’s caption conveyed his appreciation, saying, “Custom-made knitted hat and scarf for Bongbong (heart). So cute. Thank you Sakura unnie.”

The connection between Yoon Do Hyun and Sakura stems from their recent collaboration at the ’38th Golden Disc Awards.’ LE SSERAFIM and YB joined forces for a powerful rock rendition of “UNFORGIVEN” featuring Nile Rodgers and “Fire in the Belly.” The collaboration not only showcased their musical prowess but also established a bond that extended beyond the stage.

Sakura, a multi-talented artist, has an extensive background in the entertainment industry. She was a former member of the South Korean-Japanese girl group Iz*One, as well as Japanese girl groups AKB48 and HKT48. Notably, Sakura is currently part of LE SSERAFIM, a group that ventured into the English-language music scene with their digital single “Perfect Night,” released on October 27, 2023. The collaboration with Blizzard Entertainment for “Overwatch 2” further expanded their reach, featuring an in-game event from November 1 to November 20, accompanied by a performance at BlizzCon on November 4, 2023.

BLIZZARD Entertainment announces collaboration with LE SSERAFIM. Credit: Twitter/Overwatch

Adding another dimension to their repertoire, LE SSERAFIM released “Dresscode” on November 19, 2023, serving as the theme song for the Japanese live-action television series adaptation of the manga series “Sexy Tanaka-san”.

The exchange of handmade gifts between Yoon Do Hyun and Sakura not only underscores their camaraderie but also showcases the warmth and connections that can develop within the diverse landscape of the entertainment industry, where artists from different genres and backgrounds come together to create memorable moments on and off the stage.

Categories
KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

ITZY Members Discuss Weight Gain During Comeback Schedules

ITZY might be on top of the world right now, but things haven’t been easy for the girl group. The members have just spoken about the difficulties of following a comeback schedule, including unexpected weight gain.

ITZY Admit Dealing With Weight Gain During Comeback

On January 12, KST, ITZY, the popular K-pop girl group, made a guest appearance on Park Myung Soo‘s YouTube show “Halmyungsoo” to promote their latest comeback with the mini album “BORN TO BE” and the title song “Untouchable.” The group, currently consisting of Yuna, Chaeryeong, Lia, and Ryujin, participated in the show, with Lia taking a break from activities due to health issues.

The episode, hosted by Park Myung Soo, provided a laid-back environment as the members enjoyed delicious delivery food and engaged in casual conversations about their lives and careers. During the discussion, Park Myung Soo raised the topic of maintaining a diet during comeback periods, a common challenge for many idols.

Yeji, one of the ITZY members, shared that they attempt to maintain a diet during comebacks, but it’s not always successful. Chaeryeong elaborated on her difficulties, explaining that her body requires sufficient sleep to lose weight. Unfortunately, the packed schedules during comebacks often deprive her of the necessary rest, making it challenging to manage her weight effectively.

Yuna empathized with Chaeryeong, pointing out that the lack of sleep can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels, resulting in increased hunger and overeating. This, in turn, contributes to bloating, creating a cycle that makes it difficult for the members to adhere to strict diets.

In response to the members expressing their frustrations over the impact of insufficient sleep on their health and weight management, Park Myung Soo lightened the mood by suggesting they take a nap right there, eliciting laughter from the ITZY members.

The candid discussion on the show highlighted the physical toll that gruelling work schedules can have on K-pop idols. ITZY’s honesty about their challenges, particularly regarding sleep deprivation and its effects on their health and diets, garnered appreciation from fans. The episode not only showcased the members’ candidness but also shed light on the demanding nature of the entertainment industry and the resilience and work ethic displayed by idols like ITZY.

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

Watch: B1A4 Makes Comeback After Two Years

CNU, Sanduel, and Gongchan poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/B1A4

After two long years of inactivity, B1A4 is now back with a new album!

On Monday, January 8, K-pop boy group B1A4 released the music video of “Rewind,” the title track of their eighth mini-album Connect. In particular, the album consists of a total of five tracks. Aside from “Rewind,” other songs included in the album are “Back to You,” “Pause,” “When You Call Me,” and “Still In My Heart.”

Moreover, the said album marks the group’s first comeback after two years. In 2021, B1A4 released the album Adore You before going on a military hiatus. Now, the trio finally returns after all the members have completed their mandatory military service.

Aside from a new album, B1A4 also held a comeback showcase to meet their fans. There, member CNU who composed “Rewind” revealed the story behind the title track. 

“The title song is a song I created with the desire to go into a dream where I can meet my fans even if I turn back time,” the singer said. He also added: “For us, meeting our fans is like a dream.”

It was also revealed that the two other members, Sandeul and Gongchan participated in writing the music of the five songs in the album. In a press release, Sandeul said that they believe it was necessary to produce songs by themselves to properly express B1A4’s unique color.

What made the comeback even more special is the group will be celebrating their 13th anniversary soon. “I hope this album will be like a gift to our fans. I hope you continue to move forward with us in the future,” B1A4 told their fans in the showcase.

More about B1A4

Originally a quintet, B1A4 made their official debut under WM Entertainment in April 2011. In 2018, the group reconstructed into a trio composing CNU, Sandeul, and Gongchan. Such development came after members Jinyoung and Baro decided not to renew their contract with the agency.

Since their debut, the group has made several hit tracks including “What’s Happening?,” “Lonely,” “Beautiful Target,” among many others. However, the group had to temporarily go on a hiatus to fulfill their military duties.

Now back with new music and their 13th anniversary around the corner, the trio expressed their intention to continue for a long time. “We hope to stay together in the future, celebrating our 15th, 20th, 30th, and 40th anniversaries,” the group said.

Featured image: CNU, Sanduel, and Gongchan poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/B1A4

Categories
K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

B.A.P.’s Daehyun Joins Former Bandmate Jong-Up’s Agency

MA Entertainment releases new profile photos of B.A.P's Daehyun. Credit: Twitter/MA Entertainment

Daehyun, a member of the boy group B.A.P., has signed an exclusive contract with MA Entertainment. With this, he will now be joining his former bandmate Moon Jong Up in the said label.

“It is a great honor that we embark on this journey with a multifaceted artist like Jung Daehyun, who has showcased his exceptional talent in areas such as music, acting, and musical,” MA Entertainment said in a press release upon welcoming the singer.

Meanwhile, Daehyun also expressed his happiness in being part of the label, “I feel great about being at the same agency as Jong Up. And I ask for your support of my activities with MA Entertainment,” he said. Moreover, the singer also relayed his gratitude to the fans who waited for him after his military hiatus. 

Furthermore, the agency assured fans that they will support Daehyun so he can grow into a better artist. “We will actively support him so that he can unleash his unlimited potential and can shine through a wide variety of activities,” MA Entertainment shared.

In addition to Daehyun and Jong Up’s reunion under one label, fans were also thrilled to know that Daehyun has started following all the B.A.P. members on Instagram. Upon seeing this, fans are hoping that the group would have more interactions in the future. 

More about B.A.P. and Daehyun

For those who don’t know, the boy group B.A.P. made their official debut in 2012 with the mini EP Warrior. Composed of members Daehyun, Jongup, Yongguk, Himchan, Youngjae, and Zelo, the group gained recognition for their songs “1004,” “Wake Me Up,” “One Shot,” among others.

However, the group, which stands for Best Absolute Perfect, disbanded in February 2019. Since then, Daehyun began promoting as a solo artist under a different agency. In the same year, he made his debut as a solo artist with the album Chapter 2 ‘27’.

Aside from his career as an idol, he also ventured into the world of acting. To note, the 30-year-old artist played the lead role in the 2020 drama Meal Kid.

With the news of Daehyun signing with a new agency, fans can’t wait to see more of his activities, both in music and in film.

Featured image: MA Entertainment releases new profile photos of B.A.P’s Daehyun. Credit: Twitter/MA Entertainment

Categories
KPOP ALBUMS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

(G)I-DLE to Release Full-Length Album ‘2’ on January 29

(G)I-DLE poses for their English EP 'Heat.' Credit: Facebook/(G)I-DLE

Save the date, Neverland! K-pop girl group (G)I-DLE will soon be back with new music!

On Monday, January 8, (G)I-DLE announced that the quintet are gearing up to release their second full-length album 2.

On their social media pages, the group shared the news with a provocative poster which used intense red lights. According to the group’s agency, CUBE Entertainment, the album will be released on January 29. 

Notably, this will be the group’s return in three months, after the release of their first English EP Heat in October 2023. However, this will be the group’s first comeback for a South Korean release after their sixth mini album I Feel in May 2023.

Moreover, 2 will also serve as the group’s first full-length album in almost two years. Their first full-length album, I Never Die, was released in March 2022. 

As of writing, the “Queencard” hitmakers have already released a teaser for the album inclusions and its pre-order sales information. Other details such as the album’s tracklist, title track, and the official music video release date are yet to be revealed.

Fans can’t wait for (G)I-DLE to be back! 

With a few weeks left until its release, fans  have shared their excitement on social media.

One fan even asked Miyeon for a comeback spoiler on the platform Bubble. To which the singer then daringly answered that the album will be “a little sexy.” Other fans also mentioned that they are excited to see the girl group in a mature concept again.

Meanwhile, others are even more anticipative with the release of 2 as they believe it will be a totally different era. Considering that the group’s I album series has finally come to an end. To recall, all of the quintet’s most recent album titles began with an I. This includes their first studio album I Never Die in 2022, and mini EPs I Do and I Feel released in 2023.

https://twitter.com/dieyacases/status/1744254290833862710

In addition, Neverlands are also excited to see Soyeon, Miyeon, Yuqi, Minnie, and Shuahua perform as a whole group again. In late 2023, both members Minnie and Shuhua had to take a short break from activities due to health concerns. After taking some time to rest, the girls welcomed the new year with restored good health.

With this, (G)I-DLE is set to promote their upcoming album as a full group.

Featured image: (G)I-DLE poses for their English EP ‘Heat.’ Credit: Facebook/(G)I-DLE

Exit mobile version