Category: KPOP NEWS

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BLACKPINK Jennie Reportedly Establishes Personal Label

Amidst rumors circulating on December 23, speculation has arisen that BLACKPINK’s Jennie has taken a significant step in her career by establishing her personal label. Rumored to be named ODDATELIER, this would mark a noteworthy development in her artistic journey, suggesting a desire for greater creative control and autonomy.

Did BLACKPINK Member Jennie Establish Her Own Personal Label?

The alleged creation of ODDATELIER reportedly took place in November 2023, as indicated by a website linked to the rumored label. However, due to a surge in visitor traffic following the rumors, the website is currently inaccessible. The information available on the site suggests that ODDATELIER, abbreviated as OA, is envisioned as “a space for creating novel and attention-grabbing content that deviates from conventional expectations”. The label is said to be founded by Jennie herself, emphasizing her role as both an artist and entrepreneur.

While BLACKPINK, including Jennie, recently renewed their contract with YG Entertainment for group activities, the details regarding her solo endeavors had not been officially disclosed. The emergence of rumors about ODDATELIER adds an intriguing layer to Jennie’s career trajectory, hinting at potential solo projects and an avenue for expressing her distinct artistic vision.

Despite the circulating rumors, neither Jennie nor official sources have confirmed the establishment of ODDATELIER. The lack of official confirmation has left fans eagerly anticipating an official statement from the artist or her management team.

If the rumors are accurate, Jennie’s move to establish a personal label aligns with a broader trend within the K-pop industry, where artists seek greater control over their creative direction and explore diverse ventures beyond their group affiliations. Establishing a personal label can also provide artists with a platform to experiment with their artistic expression, collaborate with other creatives, and venture into unique projects that may not fit within the conventional structures of major entertainment companies.

As fans await official confirmation or statements from Jennie and her team, the speculation surrounding ODDATELIER has also generated considerable excitement and curiosity about what new and innovative endeavors Jennie may embark upon under her own creative banner.

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NewJeans Delivers Sponsorship Funds for The Deaf

NewJeans, the rising sensation in the K-pop scene, has recently garnered attention not just for their musical prowess but also for their commendable philanthropic efforts. On December 22, Kim Minja, CEO of the welfare organization Snail of Love, proudly announced that NewJeans had delivered sponsorship funds dedicated to supporting deaf individuals.

NewJeans Joins Exclusive Club After Latest Sponsorship Funds

This act of generosity stemmed from a portion of the album revenue earned by NewJeans, exemplifying their commitment to making a positive impact beyond the realm of entertainment. Notably, this isn’t the first time the group has contributed to this cause. In the previous year, both ADOR and NewJeans had also donated proceeds from their sales profits to the same organization, showcasing a consistent dedication to supporting those in need.

As a result of this second sponsorship, NewJeans has been recognized and honored as the seventh member of the organization’s prestigious “Soul Leader” club. The designation is bestowed upon donors whose accumulated contributions exceed KRW 99.0 million (approximately USD 76,400), signifying a remarkable level of commitment to the cause.

How NewJeans’ Donation Will Help The Deaf

The funds donated by NewJeans will play a crucial role in supporting projects aimed at sound-recovery-related treatments and assistance. This includes financing artificial cochlear surgery for deaf individuals, facilitating the replacement of external hearing devices, and supporting speech rehabilitation therapy. By directing their philanthropic efforts towards projects that directly impact the lives of those with hearing impairments, NewJeans is not only raising awareness but also actively contributing to the betterment of the community.

The group’s involvement with Snail of Love also reflects a broader trend within the K-pop industry, where artists leverage their influence to address social issues and contribute to charitable causes. NewJeans’ commitment to making a meaningful difference serves as an inspiration, encouraging fans and fellow artists alike to consider the positive impact they can have beyond their artistic endeavors.

As NewJeans continues to make waves in the music industry, their philanthropic endeavors add an extra layer of admiration from fans who appreciate not only their talent on stage but also their compassionate contributions to society. The announcement of their sponsorship funds for deaf individuals reaffirms that, for NewJeans, success is not only measured in chart rankings but also in the positive change they bring to the lives of those in need.

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SUPER JUNIOR D and E, MAMAMOO+ and More Cancel K-Pop Festival Open Air #2 Appearance

The much-anticipated K-Pop Festival Open Air #2 in Vietnam has found itself embroiled in controversy and facing severe backlash due to mismanagement, leading to a cascade of withdrawals from participating artists. The two-day event, originally set to unfold at the My Dinh National Stadium on December 23 and 24, boasted a star-studded lineup featuring renowned acts like EXO’s Chen and Xiumin, TRI.BE, Super Junior D&E, INFINITE, HIGHLIGHT, MAMAMOO+, and more.

However, the excitement surrounding the festival turned into disappointment and frustration as multiple artists began announcing their withdrawal just days before the scheduled event. The first blow came on December 20 when INFINITE declared their decision to pull out, citing the organizers’ repeated failure to fulfill contractual obligations and their inability to confirm whether essential local permits had been secured for the event.

MAMAMOO+ Pulls Out of Upcoming Music Festival in Vietnam

Following INFINITE’s announcement, a domino effect ensued, with other high-profile acts, including Super Junior D&E, HIGHLIGHT, MAMAMOO+, The Wind, Jaejoong, TRI.BE, and 2PM’s Nichkhun and Jun.K, confirming the cancellation of their appearances. The wave of withdrawals not only left fans devastated but also raised concerns about the festival’s viability as a whole.

The primary issues cited by the withdrawing artists were the organizers’ failure to meet contractual obligations and the uncertainty surrounding essential permits for the event. The lack of clarity and assurance from the organizers regarding the necessary approvals added a layer of skepticism to the entire affair.

As fans expressed their disappointment and frustration on social media, the spotlight turned to BOM Entertainment, the organizer of the festival. Despite the mounting criticism and the widespread cancellations, BOM Entertainment has yet to release an official statement addressing the situation, leaving fans and the public in the dark about the fate of the K-Pop Festival Open Air #2.

The incident highlights the importance of thorough and transparent event management, particularly when dealing with high-profile artists and large-scale festivals. The organizers’ failure to secure necessary permits and fulfill contractual obligations not only jeopardizes the event but also undermines the trust of both participating artists and fans. As the controversy unfolds, the K-Pop community awaits a response from BOM Entertainment and hopes for clear communication regarding the future of the festival.

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KORAIL Employee Who Violated BTS’ RM’s Privacy Has Been Reinstated

The Korean Railway Corporation (KORAIL) has found itself in the midst of controversy as reports emerge of the reinstatement of an employee, referred to as “A,” who had been dismissed for illegally accessing personal data about BTS leader RM.

KORAIL Reinstates Employee Who Violated BTS RM’s Privacy

According to Dispatch, the decision to reinstate “A” came after a second review of the offense by the Central Labor Relations Commission. The employee, previously in charge of IT development at KORAIL, reportedly accessed RM’s personal information, including ticket details, address, and mobile phone number, over a period of three years starting in 2019.

It was revealed that “A” admitted to accessing RM‘s reservation information with the intention of seeing him in person. Furthermore, they shared details about the BTS leader’s seat with a friend to allow them to reserve a nearby seat. KORAIL acknowledged that “A” was a fan and characterized the actions as stemming from curiosity rather than malice.

Why The KORAIL Employee’s Reinstatement Might Be A Bad Move

The breach of privacy raised serious concerns as it violated the Personal Information Protection Act, which stipulates that customer information should only be accessed for necessary service processing. Unauthorized access to personal data, especially for non-business purposes, is strictly prohibited.

In addition to accessing RM’s information, “A” reportedly engaged in similar unauthorized access to personal data belonging to other KORAIL employees. The breach was brought to light during an internal audit, leading to the termination of “A’s” employment.

Despite the severity of the privacy breach, the reinstatement decision has sparked controversy and raised eyebrows. The initial dismissal of “A’s” application for a review highlighted the gravity of the situation. However, the subsequent reversal of this decision by the Central Labor Relations Commission has left many questioning the ethics and principles governing the protection of individuals’ private information.

This incident sheds light on the challenges organizations face in balancing the rights of employees with the need to maintain a secure and respectful work environment. The decision to reinstate “A” emphasizes the importance of a thorough examination of privacy breaches and calls for a reevaluation of the existing legal framework governing personal data protection in the workplace. The controversy surrounding KORAIL’s decision serves as a reminder of the ongoing discussions and efforts needed to safeguard individuals’ privacy in an increasingly digitalized world.

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SEVENTEEN’s ‘Pretty U’ Hits 100M Streams on Spotify

Global boy band SEVENTEEN has added another illustrious achievement to their repertoire, as their 2016 hit single “Pretty U” crossed the remarkable milestone of 100 million streams on Spotify. The momentous occasion, which unfolded on December 22 KST, marks the ninth song by SEVENTEEN to reach this substantial stream count on the popular music streaming platform.

‘Pretty U’ Finally Reaches 100 Million Spotify Streams

“Pretty U” holds a special place in SEVENTEEN’s discography, having been released on April 25, 2016, as the title track of their first full-length album ‘Love & Letter’. The infectious charm of the song, combined with SEVENTEEN’s signature blend of vocal harmonies and dynamic choreography, catapulted it to success. Notably, “Pretty U” secured the group their first two consecutive wins on “Show Champion” in May 2016, further solidifying its impact and resonance with fans.

Beyond the domestic accolades, “Pretty U” also made its mark internationally by charting at an impressive number three on Billboard’s World Digital Songs chart. This achievement marked a significant milestone for Seventeen at the time, showcasing their growing global influence and setting the stage for their continued success on the international stage.

The fact that it took “Pretty U” approximately 7 years and 7 months to amass 100 million streams underscores the enduring popularity and longevity of SEVENTEEN’s music. This achievement is a testament to the sustained dedication and loyalty of their fanbase, known as CARATs, who have continued to support the group’s music throughout the years.

SEVENTEEN’s journey on Spotify has been nothing short of remarkable, with “Pretty U” joining a prestigious lineup of other tracks, including “Super,” “HOT,” “Darl+ing,” “Rock with you,” “Left & Right,” “Don’t Wanna Cry,” “Very Nice,” and “Clap,” in the coveted 100 million streams club.

As SEVENTEEN continues to break barriers and set records, the achievement of 100 million streams for “Pretty U” serves as a celebration not only of the group’s musical prowess but also of the unwavering support and enthusiasm of their global fanbase. It signifies a beautiful synergy between the artists and their fans, creating a legacy that transcends time and borders.

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3 LUN8 Members Involved in Minor Car Accident

Tragedy struck the rising South Korean boy band LUN8 as their scheduled activities for the day were abruptly cancelled following a minor car accident involving three of its members.

Fantagio Confirms LUN8 Members Were Involved in Minor Car Accident

On December 22, Fantagio shared a statement regarding LUN8’s upcoming activity.

“While on the way to fulfill an initially undisclosed scheduled activity on December 22 (Friday) using two vehicles, a minor collision occurred involving the vehicle carrying LUN8’s Chael, Takuma, and Jun Woo caused by the vehicle behind them,” it read.

“Immediately after the accident, Chael, Takuma, and Jun Woo were promptly transported to the hospital for thorough examinations. The results confirmed that neither the members nor the accompanying staff sustained injuries. However, as a precautionary measure, we would like to inform you that they will be taking a break for stability and rest,” it continued.

Fantagio also confirmed that the members would be unable to attend their previous schedule for “School Attack”.

LUN8, formed by Fantagio in 2023, consists of eight talented individuals: Chael, Jinsu, Takuma, Junwoo, Dohyun, Ian, Ji Eun-ho, and Eunseop. The group made its debut on June 15, 2023, with the extended play “Continue?” and has since been making waves in the competitive K-pop scene.

Who are LUN8?

The journey of LUN8 began with the members’ humble origins as trainees under Fantagio i-Teen, a renowned rookie talent development program. Their hard work and dedication paid off when they officially signed with the Japanese agency HIAN on June 13, 2023, marking the beginning of a promising chapter in their musical careers.

Despite their relatively short time in the industry, LUN8 has demonstrated versatility and unity, showcasing their collective talents through various projects. On November 17, members Takuma, Junwoo, Dohyun, Ji Eun-ho, and Eunseop formed the group’s first unit, Lun8wave. The unit released the single “Playground” on November 22, providing fans with a glimpse of their individual and collaborative abilities.

The minor car accident that led to the cancellation of today’s activities serves as a reminder of the unpredictable challenges that artists may face, even in the midst of their burgeoning success. The well-being of the members takes precedence, and the management’s decision to prioritize their health and safety is commendable.

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BTOB’s Yook Sungjae Finally Signs With New Agency

BTOB’s Yook Sungjae, a multifaceted talent renowned for his prowess in music, acting, and variety, has found a new home at IWill Media. The announcement, made on December 22, marked the final chapter in the journey of BTOB members seeking new agencies following their departure from CUBE Entertainment.

Yook Sungjae Finally Signs With New Agency

IWill Media, primarily recognized for its notable contributions in content production, including OSTs and dramas like “Moon in the Day,” “May I Help You?,” and “Gold Mask,” unveiled their exclusive contract with Yook Sungjae. The collaboration signals a strategic move for the media company, transitioning into talent management and expanding beyond content creation to become a comprehensive entertainment agency.

The statement from IWill Media affirmed their commitment to providing unwavering support for Sungjae’s diverse activities. Recognizing his versatility, they expressed their dedication to enabling him to pursue music, acting, and variety engagements even more actively. Notably, the agency also pledged proactive support for Sungjae’s continued involvement in BTOB, underlining their commitment to fostering the group’s collective success.

Yook Sungjae’s decision to join IWill Media comes after his fellow BTOB members also secured new agency affiliations. In November, Changsub inked an exclusive contract with Fantagio, and on December 18, Eunkwang, Minhyuk, Hyunsik, and Peniel signed exclusive contracts together with a newly established company. The coordinated efforts of the BTOB members to find suitable agencies highlight their mutual support and determination to continue their careers as a group and as individual artists.

As Yook Sungjae embarks on this new chapter, fans can anticipate a continued display of his multifaceted talents, enriched by the support of IWill Media. The agency’s foray into talent management, propelled by the inclusion of such a dynamic artist, positions them for further growth and prominence in the entertainment industry. Fans can look forward to witnessing Yook Sungjae’s flourishing career under the guidance of IWill Media, as he continues to leave an indelible mark on the realms of music, acting, and variety entertainment.

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DGNA’s Karam, Injun, And Jay Set To Debut in New Group

DGNA’s Karam, Injun, and Jay have embarked on an exciting new chapter in their careers, signing an exclusive contract with the recently established New Ways Company. The development follows their notable resurgence on JTBC’s idol survival show “Peak Time” where their exceptional talents once again captivated audiences.

New Ways Company Announces Future Plans for Karam, Injun, and Jay

New Ways Company, in their announcement on December 21, expressed their enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “Karam, Injun, and Jay, who are making a fresh start with our agency, are forming a new group together with new members, and they will make a comeback in the first half of next year.” This revelation adds a layer of anticipation to the K-pop scene, as fans eagerly await the unveiling of this reimagined musical journey.

The trio initially stepped into the limelight in 2010 as members of the group DGNA, also known as The Boss. DGNA, formed by Open World Entertainment, consisted of Karam, Injun, Jay, Mika, and Hyunmin. Over the years, the group underwent changes in its lineup, with Mika departing in December 2018 and Hyunmin in 2017.

The decision to redebut as a new group signals a bold move, promising fans a revitalized and evolved sound. The addition of fresh talent to the trio is expected to bring a unique dynamic to their performances and music, injecting renewed energy into their artistic expression.

DGNA’s Long Journey

The journey of DGNA has been marked by resilience and adaptability, from their debut in 2010 with “Admiring Boy” to their recent appearance on “Peak Time.” The group’s decision to withdraw from the show following a controversy involving Karam highlights their commitment to maintaining a positive and professional image in the industry.

As the members embark on this exciting new phase, they carry with them a wealth of experience and a dedicated fanbase built over the years. The anticipation surrounding their redebut is not only a testament to their individual talents but also a celebration of the enduring spirit of DGNA. Fans can look forward to the first half of 2024, when the new group is set to make its eagerly awaited comeback, promising a fresh and exhilarating musical experience.

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Galaxy Corporation Reportedly Met With Another BIGBANG Member

Should we be ready for the comeback of the Princes of K-pop? G-Dragon‘s new company may have reached out to another BIGBANG member with the intention to support their group activities.

Galaxy Corporation May Have Reached Out To Another BIGBANG Member

As of December 20, media outlets have reported that Galaxy Corporation, the recent signee of K-pop icon G-Dragon, is potentially considering supporting group activities for BIGBANG in 2024. Galaxy Corporation is primarily recognized for its involvement in AI/metaverse development, marketing, and TV production. The corporation’s expansion into the music industry, particularly to support G-Dragon’s Japanese activities in 2024, signifies a strategic move to diversify its business ventures.

The reports suggest that Galaxy Corporation is actively working towards establishing a branch in Japan to facilitate G-Dragon’s musical endeavors in the country. The move indicates the corporation’s commitment to providing comprehensive support for the artist’s activities, extending beyond the Korean market.

Additionally, there have reportedly been preliminary discussions between Galaxy Corporation representatives and BIGBANG’s Daesung. These discussions reportedly cover a range of creative opportunities, including both solo activities for Daesung and potential group promotions for BIGBANG. If this is true, the idol group could be gearing up for a comeback in 2024.

Daesung’s Busy Year

Daesung, currently represented by D-LABEL, a subsidiary of RND Company, has recently made a comeback after a prolonged hiatus with the special single “Flow.” He is also set to serve as one of the judges on the upcoming trot competition show “Living Legend,” a survival music variety program aiming to identify the top seven active female trot singers in South Korea for the 2024 Korea-Japan Trot Legend Championship.

The potential collaboration and support for Big Bang’s group activities in 2024 reflect Galaxy Corporation’s strategic approach to leveraging its entry into the music industry. By aligning with influential artists like G-Dragon and exploring opportunities with other members of BIGBANG, the corporation aims to diversify its portfolio and contribute to the success of renowned K-pop acts in both domestic and international markets. This move positions Galaxy Corporation as a multifaceted entertainment company with interests ranging from AI and metaverse development to music production and artist management.

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JTBC Apologizes to G-Dragon Following Galaxy Corporation’s Ultimatum

JTBC has officially apologized to G-Dragon. The host of the network’s news show extended an apology to the BIGBANG leader after Kwon Ji-yong’s new company issued an ultimatum against malicious comments about the singer.

JTBC News Host Publicly Apologizes to G-Dragon

During a news broadcast on December 21, Yang Won Bo, the anchor of JTBC News’s “Scandal Supervisor,” publicly apologized to G-Dragon for their coverage of his recent drug-related incident. The anchor acknowledged that the initial reports, aired during the early stages of the police investigation, may have contained inappropriate or incorrect information from G-Dragon’s perspective. Recognizing the impact of their reporting on the artist and his fans, the anchor issued a sincere apology for any distress or inconvenience caused.

Over the past two months, JTBC had reported false information about G-Dragon, making allegations about his behavior and drug-related accusations. The coverage included critiques of his actions during his appearance at the police station, suggesting that he owed a public apology. The network’s remarks and headlines conveyed a negative interpretation of G-Dragon’s demeanor during the investigation, leading to significant public backlash.

G-Dragon’s New Company Takes Action Against Malicious Comments

On December 21, G-Dragon revealed that he had signed an exclusive contract with Galaxy Corporation, marking his departure from YG Entertainment. During a press conference held on the same day, Galaxy Corporation’s CEO, Jo Sung Hae, emphasized their commitment to protecting G-Dragon’s reputation and announced their intention to pursue strict legal actions against individuals responsible for defamatory content and malicious reports about the artist. The company set a deadline of one week for the removal of all false reports, urging media outlets to exercise restraint in reporting on G-Dragon’s drug incident. The agency emphasized the importance of allowing G-Dragon to resume his music activities without undue hindrance.

The public apology from JTBC News’s anchor is a significant acknowledgment of the impact and consequences of their reporting on G-Dragon. The artist’s agency, Galaxy Corporation, has taken a proactive stance in defending his reputation and ensuring a fair environment for his return to the music industry. The press conference and the CEO’s statements signal a commitment to protecting G-Dragon from unwarranted negative coverage and false allegations, fostering an environment conducive to his successful comeback.

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