Category: KPOP NEWS

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IU Requests Compensation for Plagiarism Accusation

EDAM Entertainment shares holiday photos of IU. Credit: Twitter/IU

Following winning her legal battle, singer-actress IU is seeking compensation for the plagiarism accusations made against her. 

On December 21, South Korean media outlets reported the development. According to the artist’s agency, EDAM Entertainment, the anonymous individual who reported the singer for copyright violations in May 2023 has recently been identified with the help of local police. 

To recall, the singer has been accused of plagiarizing other people’s works in six of her tracks. Some of these songs include her hits “Good Day” and “The Red Shoes.”

In September, the singer’s case was dismissed as legal authorities decided that the accusations did not directly involve the supposed original composers of the allegedly copied songs. A month after, EDAM immediately proceeded to file a defamation lawsuit against the accuser.

In total, IU is seeking 30 Million Won or approximately $23,000 in compensation for the damages caused by the plagiarism accusations.

Since the lawsuit is still ongoing, the agency refrained from disclosing more information. “We are currently checking the information in accordance with the law, and cannot disclose the details yet”, EDAM said. However, the label reassured that the lawsuit will proceed until the accuser faces the legal consequences of their actions.

What to expect from IU in 2024

Amidst this development, the singer will be welcoming the new year with a positive start. 

During the last week of December, she has revealed that she will be releasing new music soon. On Christmas Day, the singer shared the behind-the-scenes video clip of her commercial shoot through her Youtube channel. There, IU also teased the fans that she is preparing to drop a new album set to be dropped in the first half of 2024.

Moreover, the singer-actress will also be seen in an official music video starring Kim TaeHyung or V of the world-renowned band BTS. Aside from V, the singer also showed her friendship with another BTS member, Suga as she appeared on his show.

In the latest episode of Suchwita, IU candidly opened up about music and career. There, she also revealed details about the upcoming mini album. Notably, she also briefly mentioned her plans for overseas concerts.

While there are no official confirmations yet about the album or the tour, fans are already excited for what she has prepared for 2024.

Featured image: EDAM Entertainment shares holiday photos of IU. Credit: Twitter/IU

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K-POP ARTISTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

G-Dragon Launches Anti-drug Foundation ‘JUSPEACE’

G-DRAGON during BIGBANG's LAST DANCE concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

K-pop singer G-Dragon is making a powerful statement after his drug accusations. After being cleared from drug allegations, the singer, whose real name is Kwon Ji-yong, launched his new anti-drug foundation JUSPEACE. 

According to the idol’s agency, Galaxy Corporation, JUSPEACE was named by G-Dragon himself. Additionally, said foundation was created through the combination of the words “justice” and “peace.”

As mentioned by the new agency’s officer, Cho Sung-hae, the foundation is established on the strong will of G-Dragon to create a society free of prejudice. “The first project of the foundation will focus on drug eradication and provide medical treatment for addicted youth,” they said.

Moreover, the BIGBANG member also shared a heartfelt letter where he announced the news on his official Instagram account. “Proper action must be taken, especially for young people exposed to dangers and people who do not realize these dangers”, G-Dragon wrote.

Showing his pure intentions, the 35-year old singer made his first donation to JUSPEACE under the name of BIGBANG’s fanbase, VIPs. With a total amount of 300 Million Won, G-Dragon used the catchphrase “Guardians of Daisy.” Such statement was used by VIPs to show their support during his investigation.

In addition, G-Dragon also plans to select experts in the fields of medical health, public administration, and welfare to participate in the foundation’s advisory committee.

To note, the idol was first accused of using illegal drugs in October. Throughout the hearing of the case, the artist has been amadant in emphasizing his innocence. In late November, he was officially cleared of suspicions after his drug tests came out negative. 

G-Dragon starts anew after leaving YG Entertainment

Not only is he celebrating being cleared from the drug-related charges, G-Dragon is also marking a fresh start in his career. In the midst of his controversy, YG Entertainment confirmed that the artist is no longer under their agency. 

After a lengthy 17 years, he officially parted ways with YG Entertainment. Notably, this made him the last BIGBANG member to depart from the agency. To note, G-Dragon was considered as one of the most esteemed YG Entertainment artists since debuting in 2006.

In a statement released by the agency on December 20, YG Entertainment shared that the artist decided to leave the label. “We sincerely wish G-Dragon blessings for his new chapter. We ask for a lot of support and encouragement from his fans,” the agency said.

Shortly after, it was announced that the artist has signed with a new company, Galaxy Corporation. 

Featured image: G-DRAGON during BIGBANG’s LAST DANCE concert in Seoul. Credit: Facebook/BIGBANG

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Jessica Jung Opens up About Departure From Girls’ Generation

Jessica Jung greets fans for the holidays with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jessica Jung

After almost a decade, former Girls’ Generation member Jessica Jung looked back on her departure from the girl group in 2014.

On December 20, Jessica made an appearance on the Singaporean podcast series, The Daily Ketchup. There, the singer opened up about leaving the group Girls’ Generation, also known as SNSD.

To note, Jessica ended her exclusive contract with SM Entertainment in 2015. At the time, the agency stated that the singer wished to focus on her solo career and business at that time.

When one of the hosts asked her thoughts about the matter, Jessica responded that she tries to put the past behind her and try to focus on the brighter side.

“Of course, that time was one of the darkest times of my life,” she said. “But I had my family and friends to support me. And my fans were always there.” 

Furthermore, the artist explained that she considers that phase of her life as a “good transitioning period” and a “good time for her to grow up”.

Moreover, Jessica gave a comparison of what it’s like being a part of a group versus working alone. The singer candidly answered that the majority wins when you work in a group, while she gets to “choose everything” as a solo artist now.

During her appearance, Jessica also clarified that these include both small details and big decisions. “You need to learn how to cope with that and be okay with being in that type of system, which I was fine with,” she said. Then, the singer proceeded to share that she enjoys her solo career so far.

Look forward to soloist Jessica Jung

After roughly six years, Jessica finally made her much-awaited comeback in November With the release of her fourth mini-album Beep Beep.

To note, the album has a total of six songs, including the title track of the same name. In particular, one of the songs is a collaboration track with fellow ex-SM Entertainment artist Amber Liu.

Upon the release of the duo’s “Get It? Got It? Good” music video, fans expressed their nostalgia seeing both singers perform in one frame again.

Aside from new music, Jessica is also in the midst of her Diamonds Dream concert tour. 

Featured image: Jessica Jung greets fans for the holidays with new photo. Credit: Instagram/Jessica Jung

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SEVENTEEN Drops Trot Single ‘God of Light Music’

SEVENTEEN releases 'God of Light Music' in official streaming platforms. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

The theater kids of K-pop are now into the trot genre! On Tuesday, December 26, boy group SEVENTEEN celebrated Christmas by dropping their first trot single “God of Light Music.”

For those unfamiliar, “God of Light Music” is meant to be a parody of the “God of Music” — the title track of the group’s album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN. 

Since it was created through the group’s variety series Going Seventeen (GoSe) as a fake promotion, fans were surprised to see the song released on official streaming platforms.

In the two-part special GoSe episode, Dino channeled his ahjussi character Pi Cheolin. As this character, he pretended to set up his agency, BOMG, with the help of producer Woozi.

Another proof that they are indeed “self-producing idols,” the group shared their process in creating “God of Light Music.” Notably, the parody track featured lyrics by the members themselves, particularly by Mingyu and Jun.

 

Undoubtedly, the group’s fandom, Carats, found the said track hilarious. Therefore, many expressed their plea to have the official release of “God of Light Music”.

“There were many requests to release the music of ‘God of Light Music,’ which was originally made as a promotional content for SEVENTEEN’s comeback,” the group’s agency, PLEDIS Entertainment said in a press release.

Alongside the release of “God of Light Music” were also several releases. One of which is the instrumental version, as well as the trot remix of “God of Music.”

Notably, trot is well-known as a popular genre of Korean music, due to its distinct repetitive rhythms. With this, “God of Light Music” serves as the latest addition to SEVENTEEN’s long and versatile discography.

More to come for SEVENTEEN

Aside from the newly released single, SEVENTEEN has another gift prepared for fans. On January 5, the group’s variety show with renowned producer Na Young Suk titled Nana Tour will finally be released.

To recall, Nana Tour, with the full title of Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN” is set to showcase the members’ wits alongside Na PD’s entertainment expertise.

In the show, the members explore scenic spots in Europe while playing various games and activities along the way. Said program will have a total of six episodes, with about a 60-minute duration per episode.

In addition, the “Super” hitmakers are also set to meet their international fans for the Asia stop of their Follow world Tour. However, SEVENTEEN will continue performing with 11 members, as S.Coups and Jeonghan are currently on hiatus due to health concerns.

Featured image: SEVENTEEN releases ‘God of Light Music’ in official streaming platforms. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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Look: Yena Drops Teasers for ‘Good Morning’

Yena poses for her EP 'Good Morning.' Credit: Twitter/Yena

Yena is welcoming 2024 with new music! On December 22, Yuehua Entertainment officially announced that the singer will be releasing a new album on January 15.

On her social media platforms, Yena first teased the fans with a mysterious “Coming Soon” poster with only the details of the release date.

https://twitter.com/YENA_OFFICIAL/status/1737850414148767885

During the last week of December, the idol started rolling out teasers for her third mini-album titled Good Morning. In some of the photos, the singer is seen rocking long pink hair while posing in different settings. 

https://twitter.com/YENA_OFFICIAL/status/1740387131217023217

According to a Naver article, a representative from Yuehua Entertainment shared what to look forward to in the upcoming release. “Choi Yena will be active as a new ‘morning angel’ through this album. She will deliver a message of hope and comfort to music fans,” it read. 

Yena to return after controversy

Since participating in MNET’s famed survival program Produce 48, she made her debut as part of the project girl group IZ*ONE, after winning a spot in the show. After disbanding in April 2020, Yena made her solo debut in 2022. As a soloist, she has been known for her popular tracks “Smiley” and “Smartphone,” among many others.

However, things did not go out well for her most recent comeback. In June, the soloist received unfavorable remarks after releasing her second single album Hate XX with the title track “Hate Rodrigo.” Although it was highly-anticipated as the song featured Yuqi of (G)I-DLE, the track was put as the center of a controversy.

Having mixed reactions about the song’s meaning, netizens pointed out that the song directly referenced US pop star Olivia Rodrigo. Moreover, the idol was criticized for her “copycat” portrayal of the “Vampire” singer in the official music video.

In response, Yuehua Entertainment released an apology for causing confusion and concern. “We have discovered that the following music video might contain grounds that may have infringed trademark and portrait rights,” they said. They then put the original video on private, and reuploaded an edited version of the MV.

In addition, Yena explained that the song was intended to pay homage to Rorigo. Moreover, it was meant to express the “cute” jealousy she feels towards the admired singer. 

After the controversy, Yena took a break from her promotions in Korea. Recently, the singer focused on her Japanese debut with the release of the Japanese version of “Smiley” featuring Chanmina.

Now seven months later, she’ll be returning with Good Morning. 

Featured image: Yena poses for her EP ‘Good Morning.’ Credit: Twitter/Yena

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RIIZE’s Anton Set For Two TV Appearances With His Father Yoon Sang

RIIZE’s Anton and his father, the highly respected composer, musician, and record producer Yoon Sang, are preparing for their first joint performance on TV. This special event is part of the 2023 MBC Music Festival, which will be broadcast at 8:30 PM on December 31.

In addition to the 2023 MBC Music Festival, Anton and Yoon Sang will also appear on tvN’s You Quiz on the Block. When they sat down with the show’s hosts, Yoo Jae-suk and Jo Se-ho, they opened up about various topics. They shared plenty of stories about their father-son relationship, as well as some interesting tidbits about Anton’s life as a member of RIIZE. The episode will air in January 2024.

라이즈 앤톤[RIIZE ANTON], 미친 재능의 수영 선수가 아이돌이 된 이유는 아버지?!

Yoon Sang on Anton

Yoon Sang once talked about how he felt when Anton decided to join the music industry. On the October 2 episode of the SBS talk show Same Bed, Different Dreams 2 – You Are My Destiny, he revealed that he used to be against the idea of his son becoming a musician. He had other things in mind for Anton.

“Anton started swimming at the age of five. When he was about 12 years old, he won a gold medal at the Junior Swimming Championships in New Jersey. He was a talented junior swimmer in the States. It just seemed obvious to me that he would keep swimming and go to university there,” he began.

That’s exactly what Anton would’ve done if it hadn’t been for COVID-19. “But along the way, all swimming pools were closed due to the pandemic,” Yoon Sang continued. “A couple of months after the pools had been shut down, Anton said, ‘I want to quit swimming and begin doing music.’ I couldn’t stop him. So when he said he wanted to go to Korea for it, I told him, ‘OK, give it a go, then.’”

[MMA2023] RIIZE FULL Performance | #GetAGuitar #TalkSaxy #MMA2023

A strong father-son relationship

So it was that Anton joined SM Entertainment as a trainee. He later debuted in RIIZE, the agency’s first new boy group in seven years. The group has had remarkable success since they came on the scene in September. Earlier this month, they won the New Artist of the Year award at the 2023 Melon Music Awards. This win is notable as it marked the first time in 15 years that an SM Entertainment act has clinched this prestigious award. SHINee had won the award in 2008, following Super Junior‘s win in 2006.

Fans of RIIZE are eagerly anticipating these TV appearances by Anton and Yoon Sang. These are not merely interviews or performances, but they offer a unique glimpse into how a strong father-son relationship can be a cornerstone for success in music. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: Anton and his father have a loving, supportive relationship. Source: Daum, X/@K_arkheion.

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SEVENTEEN’s S.Coups Drops ‘Me’ MV as Year-End Gift to Fans

S.Coups, the leader of SEVENTEEN, surprised CARATS with a sweet year-end gift—a new song titled “Me.” The release of this song, accompanied by a music video, serves as a thoughtful present from Choi Seungcheol to the fans who have eagerly awaited his return.

S.Coups Releases ‘Me’ MV as Year-End Gift for CARATS

“Me” is not only a heartfelt expression of S.Coups’ feelings but also a powerful track that showcases his artistic prowess. The song was written and composed by S.Coups in collaboration with BUMZU, SEVENTEEN’s longtime producer. The release of “Me” offers fans a glimpse into the leader’s musical style and a meaningful connection with him during his absence from SEVENTEEN’s recent activities.

S.Coups had been on a hiatus from SEVENTEEN’s promotional activities due to a health condition. In October, PLEDIS Entertainment announced that S.Coups would not be participating in the promotions for ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’, the group’s latest album. This decision was made in consideration of his health, as he had sustained a tear in his left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) while filming for a show in August. The vulnerability of his knee necessitated a comprehensive medical examination, leading to the decision to prioritize his recovery and well-being.

S.Coups’ Absence in Recent SEVENTEEN Activities

Despite S.Coups’ strong desire to participate in SEVENTEEN’s activities, the agency, in consultation with medical professionals, chose to prioritize his health and avoid any physical taxing activities that could hinder his recovery. The fans, known as CARATS, have shown understanding and support for this decision, emphasizing the importance of the health and well-being of the members.

SEVENTEEN, despite S.Coups’ temporary absence, has continued to achieve remarkable success. Their latest album ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’, recorded over 5.2 million pre-orders, making it the most pre-ordered K-pop album in history. Additionally, the group received their first MAMA Awards Daesang for Album of the Year on November 29, marking a significant achievement in their illustrious career.

The release of “Me” by S.Coups serves as a meaningful bridge between the artist and CARATS, providing fans with a special connection and a heartfelt musical gift as they eagerly await S.Coups’ full return to SEVENTEEN’s activities.

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WONHO Shares Sweet Holiday Gift With ‘Come Over Tonight’ Special MV

Wonho has treated fans to a special holiday gift with the release of a new music video for “Come Over Tonight.” The track is part of his 2021 mini-album ‘Blue Letter’ and revolves around the theme of expressing a desire to spend the night with someone special.

Wonho Releases Sweet ‘Come Over Tonight’ Special MV

The music video, a delightful surprise for Wonho’s fans, was filmed prior to his military enlistment in December 2022. On November 15, 2022, Highline Entertainment, Wonho’s agency, announced his enlistment as a public service worker, and he officially began his military service on December 5, 2022.

“Come Over Tonight” showcases Wonho’s artistic expression and captures the sentiment of the song, offering fans a heartfelt and intimate visual experience. The release of the music video serves as a thoughtful gesture from Wonho, reinforcing the connection between the artist and his dedicated fanbase.

Wonho’s commitment to staying connected with fans, even during his military service, is evident in the special releases and communications shared through official channels. The decision to unveil a music video filmed before his enlistment demonstrates Wonho’s consideration for fans and his desire to provide them with meaningful content during his absence.

“I’ll prepare lots of things so that WENEE won’t get bored, and I hope WENEE will spend that time happily, freely catching up on the things that you haven’t been able to do up until now while waiting for the day that we’ll meet again!” he wrote in a letter for his fans.

Before his military enlistment, Wonho had released his second single album titled ‘Bittersweet’ on October 14, 2022. The title track of the album, “Don’t Regret,” showcased Wonho’s versatile musical style and received positive responses from fans and the music industry.

As Wonho continues his military service, fans can appreciate and enjoy the special music video for “Come Over Tonight,” embracing the artist’s thoughtful gestures and eagerly anticipating his return to the music scene in the future. The release also serves as a heartwarming connection between Wonho and his fans, fostering a sense of shared moments even in his absence from active promotions.

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BIBI Admits Having BTS’ RM and Jungkook Phone Numbers

BIBI might be closer to some BTS members than initially expected. The “Animal Farm” singer revealed she has the personal numbers of RM and Jungkook. Hilariously, she then asked the idols’ fans not to be angry with her for having the contact.

BIBI Admits Having RM and Jungkook’s Contact Numbers on Her Phone

In a recent interview with Glamour magazine, singer BIBI gave fans a glimpse into her phone and shared details about her contacts, revealing that she has the numbers of BTS members RM and Jungkook.

When asked about the most famous person in her contacts, BIBI mentioned RM, but she hesitated, indicating that they might not be that close, and humorously added, “We’re not that close,” while expressing uncertainty about whether RM still uses the same number.

BIBI then disclosed that she also has Jungkook’s contact, another BTS member, in her phone. However, she playfully insisted that she is not close with either of them, addressing ARMY (BTS’s fanbase) and jokingly saying, “ARMY, don’t come for me.” She quickly clarified herself, stating that she didn’t want any haters and expressing her love for ARMY.

The revelation of having RM and Jungkook’s contacts sparked interest and excitement among fans. However, some ARMY members expressed their frustration playfully, pointing out that BIBI has had the members’ contact information all this time, yet there hasn’t been any indication of a collaboration song. The desire for collaborations between popular artists is common among fans, and the playful complaints from ARMYs reflected their anticipation for such a collaboration.

BTS, including RM and Jungkook, is currently serving in the military. Despite the physical distance and their busy schedules, fans are always hopeful for future collaborations that could bring together diverse talents within the music industry. BIBI’s candid revelation about having BTS members’ contacts added a lighthearted moment to the interview, showcasing the friendly dynamics between artists within the industry.

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G-Dragon Possibly Paid Tribute to Late Lee Sun Kyun

G-Dragon might be one of the several Korean celebrities who have paid tribute to the late Lee Sun Kyun. The BIGBANG leader posted a silent but powerful tribute to the “Parasite” actor who passed away earlier this week.

G-Dragon’s Latest Post Might Subtly Honor The Late Lee Sun Kyun

On December 28, G-Dragon took to his Instagram story to pay his respects to the late actor Lee Sun Kyun. The K-pop star shared a photo of a white chrysanthemum, a poignant symbol of grief in Korean tradition, commonly used by mourners to express condolences and honor the deceased during a funeral.

Lee Sun Kyun, a beloved Korean actor, tragically passed away on December 27 amidst an ongoing investigation into alleged drug use. The circumstances surrounding his death have drawn significant attention, and both G-Dragon and Lee found themselves embroiled in the same controversy regarding suspected drug use. The allegations against both stars were made by the same party.

G-Dragon and Lee Sun Kyun: What Happened To These Celebrities?

In the wake of the accusations, G-Dragon and Lee underwent drug tests, with both testing negative for illicit substances. G-Dragon, in particular, took extra measures to communicate his innocence to the public, successfully clearing his name. Unfortunately, Lee’s case was still under investigation at the time of his sudden death.

The news of Lee Sun Kyun’s passing followed intense scrutiny, including a 19-hour police interrogation just days before his death. The circumstances surrounding both G-Dragon and the “Parasite” actor were marked by what many perceive as an unfair and unfounded witch hunt, prompting sympathy and condolences from fans who wished for justice and peace for the late actor.

G-Dragon’s simple yet poignant tribute resonated with fans who felt a shared sense of loss and sadness. The Instagram post not only expressed condolences but also drew attention to the toll that public scrutiny and accusations can take on individuals in the public eye. As fans mourned the passing of Lee Sun Kyun, they also reflected on the broader issues surrounding privacy, mental health, and the importance of treating individuals with fairness and empathy, especially in the face of unverified allegations.

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