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Korean-American Singer Steve Yoo Wins Lawsuit Against Visa Denial

Steve Yoo

Korean-American singer Steve Yoo, aka Yoo Seung Jun, recently notched a big win in his own legal battle. The Supreme Court ruled in his favor, overturning the initial denial of his F-4 visa and passport issuance. This decision upholds an earlier ruling by the Seoul High Court.

Korean descendants who are foreign nationals can work and live in South Korea using the F-4 visa. It’s a multiple entry visa that grants them the right to reside in Korea for three years. However, F-4 visa holders do not have the right to vote in national elections.

The Supreme Court’s decision comes after a lengthy legal battle. Yoo first filed a lawsuit in 2015 after the South Korean Consulate General in Los Angeles refused to issue him a visa. In 2020, the high court ruled that the refusal was procedurally flawed. When Yoo reapplied for a permit, the consulate general declined it again, prompting him to file a second suit in 2020 to reverse the decision.

Court rules gov’t refusal to issue visa to Steve Yoo should be reversed

A turning point for Steve Yoo

The Ministry of Justice and other stakeholders are expected to discuss follow-up measures. If Yoo applies for a visa again, it won’t be easy for the consulate general in Los Angeles to refuse it unless it provides other grounds for visa refusal other than his dodging of military service.

However, even if he receives a visa, if the Ministry of Justice doesn’t lift its entry ban on Yoo, he will not be able to come to South Korea. If the government approves visa issuance and lifts the entry ban, Yoo will get to go there for the first time in about 20 years.

음악캠프 – Steve Yoo – Passion, 유승준 – 열정, Music Camp 19990515

Born in Seoul in 1976, Steve Yoo moved to California with his family at 13. He debuted in South Korea in 1997. With his powerful dance music, he became quite popular in the late 1990s and early 2000s. However, he renounced his Korean nationality to become a US citizen just before he was set to begin alternative military service. That led to the ban and subsequent public outcry, as all able-bodied South Korean men aged between 18 and 40 are required to serve.

This recent legal victory marks a potential turning point in his career and relationship with his home country. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: This ruling is a welcome development for the beleaguered singer. Source: X/@hjh1882.

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BABYMONSTER’s ‘Batter Up’ MV Hits 100 Million Views on YouTube

BABYMONSTER continues to prove that they are the next big thing in K-pop. The rookie girl group just achieved another major milestone as their “BATTER UP” MV reached over 100 million views on YouTube. Amazingly, the idols managed the feat just over two weeks after the single was released!

‘BATTER UP’ MV Finally Hits 100M Views

BABYMONSTER, the girl group from YG Entertainment, has achieved a significant milestone with their debut music video “BATTER UP,” as it reached 100 million views on YouTube. The video, released on November 27, 2023, attained this remarkable feat in just 18 days, setting a record as the fastest debut music video by a K-Pop group to surpass 100 million views.

The success of “BATTER UP” was evident from its quick ascent on YouTube, reaching 50 million views within just under 4 days and 8 hours of its release. To celebrate this achievement, the group released a dance performance video for their fans.

BABYMONSTER, initially consisting of seven members—Ruka, Pharita, Asa, Ahyeon, Rami, Rora, and Chiquita—was formed through a meticulous selection process documented in the reality show “Last Evaluation.” The final lineup represents the group’s multicultural identity, featuring members from South Korea, Japan, and Thailand.

Despite facing initial uncertainties, such as rumors of member Ahyeon departing due to health reasons, YG Entertainment clarified that Ahyeon would remain part of the lineup. She chose to temporarily exclude herself from debut activities to prioritize her recovery, emphasizing the agency’s commitment to the well-being of its artists.

As BABYMONSTER continues to make waves with their debut, the anticipation surrounding their future activities and contributions to the K-pop landscape is growing. The group’s achievement not only underscores their talent and appeal but also solidifies YG Entertainment’s commitment to nurturing and promoting exceptional artists in the dynamic world of K-pop. BABYMONSTER’s rapid success highlights the global appeal of K-pop and the enthusiasm of fans worldwide for new and exciting groups emerging from renowned entertainment agencies.

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BamBam Shares Frustrations with Newer GOT7 Songs

There is little doubt that GOT7 continues to be one of the most popular boy groups in the industry. However, their success has also been marred by some disappointments which BamBam recently addressed. The “Ribbon” singer just admitted his frustrations with the newer GOT7 songs.

BamBam Opens Up About Waning Success of Newer GOT7 Songs

GOT7 BamBam’s recent comments during an episode of “BamHouse” discussing the group’s songs have reignited fans’ frustration with their former company JYP Entertainment. In the episode, BamBam expressed his wish that GOT7 “could have done better” with their songs after tracks like “Just Right,” “Hard Carry,” “If You Do,” and “Lullaby.”

The discussion occurred as BamBam hosted RED VELVET’s Wendy and Seulgi in his home. The RED VELVET members named some of their favorite GOT7 tracks, praising the group’s willingness to try new things. However, BamBam’s remark about the difficulty in making songs after certain tracks stirred reactions from fans, leading to renewed anger directed at JYP Entertainment.

GOT7 debuted in 2014 under JYP Entertainment and stayed with the company until their contracts expired in 2021. In the years leading up to their departure, fans and netizens had expressed dissatisfaction with JYP Entertainment over various issues, including a perceived lack of domestic and international promotions, interference with self-produced songs, and insufficient social media presence.

BamBam’s recent comments have brought back frustrations among fans, with many placing blame on JYP Entertainment for not adequately promoting the group. The renewed anger is reflected in fans expressing their dissatisfaction with the company, with some even using strong language to convey their frustration.

The episode highlights the lasting impact of the issues raised during GOT7’s time with JYP Entertainment and the continued emotional connection fans have with the group. While GOT7 has moved on to new chapters in their careers, the sentiments expressed by BamBam have sparked a resurgence of discussions surrounding the challenges the group faced during their time under JYP Entertainment.

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‘My Roommate is a Gumiho’ Star Hyeri Mistaken for aespa Member

Hyeri has already established herself as a force to reckon with in the entertainment industry. In addition to her success as a member of Girl’s Day, Lee Hye-ri has become one of the most sought-after actresses of her generation. Still, some don’t know who she is but still assume she is a major celebrity. For instance, the “My Roommate is a Gumiho” star was just mistaken for a member of aespa!

‘My Roommate is a Gumiho’ Actor Lee Hyeri Shares Hilarious Encounters During Tokyo Trip

In her latest video, titled “TOKYO SHOPPING HAUL,” Hyeri shared her shopping experience in Tokyo and showcased the unique and stylish items she purchased. The video’s highlight was a memorable encounter at the Stussy store, where an employee complimented Hyeri’s visuals and even expressed personal interest.

Hyeri revealed that while browsing the Stussy store, an employee went beyond the usual customer service and called her “my type,” expressing admiration for her appearance. The interaction took a surprising turn when the employee handed Hyeri a memo, asking for her Instagram ID. This unexpected and flattering episode left Hyeri giddy and added a romantic flair to her shopping experience.

As Hyeri unpacked her purchases, she shared another amusing episode from a different store. While showcasing a hoodie from Acne Studios, one of her staff members inquired about the encounter at the previous store. Hyeri recounted that, instead of revealing her profession when asked by a shopkeeper, she playfully challenged them to guess. To her surprise, the shopkeeper correctly guessed that she was an idol.

Hyeri, feigning shock at the accurate guess, couldn’t help but be flattered by the shopkeeper’s recognition. Interestingly, the shopkeeper speculated that she belonged to the fourth-generation idol group aespa, suggesting that the “My Roommate is a Gumiho” star is a lot younger than she truly is. The humorous exchange highlighted the charm and approachability of the idol, who embraced the playful moments during her Tokyo shopping spree.

The Stussy and Acne Studios items featured in the haul reflected Hyeri’s distinct fashion sense, showcasing statement pieces from luxury brands. The video not only provided a glimpse into Hyeri’s stylish preferences but also entertained fans with the delightful stories that unfolded during her shopping adventure in Tokyo.

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Watch: NewJeans Drops Teaser for Remix Album ‘NJWMX’

The quintet during their performance at the BBMAs. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Don’t miss this out, Bunnies! K-pop girl group NewJeans is about to drop reworked versions of their hit tracks!

On Thursday, December 14, the monster rookies released a 25-second teaser for their upcoming remix album NJWMX.

According to the girl group’s agency ADOR, the quintet is set to make a comeback on December 19. Moreover, the album NJWMX, which stands for “NewJeans Winter Mix”, will consist of a total of 12 tracks. 

Among the tracks are remixes of their hit songs “OMG,” “Attention,” “Hype Boy,” “Ditto,” “Hurt,” and “Cookie.” Meanwhile, the remaining six tracks will be instrumental versions of the reworks.

In addition, the rework of “OMG” has been revealed to be the lead single for NJWMX.

As per reports, the album will take a trip down the memory lane. “Relive your special moments with NewJeans over the past year, with this festive yet nostalgic collection of remixes for the holiday season,” they teased.

Composed of Danielle, Minji, Hyein, Haerin, and Hanni, the group celebrated their first debut anniversary in July. Loved for their exceptional performances and addictive music, NewJeans has been topping the charts and breaking records with only a year and a half in their careers.

More presents from NewJeans

Aside from the remix album, NewJeans and their fandom, Bunnies, have one more thing to celebrate.

In the recently held Asia Artist Awards (AAA) on December 14, the sensational group took home a remarkable double victory having secured the Singer of the Year and Song of the Year Daesangs. Notably, NewJeans won the latter award for their song “Ditto.”

Apart from the grand prizes, the quintet took home four more awards namely: Hot Trend Award, Asia Celebrity Award, Best Choice Award and Fabulous Award.

With NJWMX as the girls’ gift for the Christmas season, NewJeans has one more thing prepared to warmly welcome the New Year. The five-piece act will be having a special performance of “Super Shy” and “ETA” at the Dick Clark’s New Year’s Rockin Eve with Ryan Seacrest 2024.

Featured image: The quintet during their performance at the BBMAs. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

 

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Watch: BTS Shares Rm, V, Jimin and Jungkook’s Military Entrance Ceremony

All seven members of BTS reunite before the enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook. Credit: Twitter/BTS

In an almost four-minute Bangtan Bomb clip, BTS shared the last moments of RM, V, Jimin and Jungkook before officially starting their mandatory military service. 

The heartwarming video showed the group’s leader and the maknae (youngest) line saying their goodbyes at the entrance ceremony. To recall, RM and V first entered the military on December 11th, while Jimin and Jungkook followed on December 12th. 

ARMYs, the group’s fanbase, were even more emotional seeing the older members Jin, Suga and J-Hope, who have already started their service, send off the remaining members. 

On their official X account, the members were seen striking a pose in an OT7 photo.  “Have a nice trip. Fighting,” the caption read. 

Moreover, Jin also shared photos in his personal Instagram account. Together with RM and V, the singer wrote: “Go and come back safely without getting hurt, my babies.” Meanwhile, for his photo with Jimin and Jungkook, Jin wrote: “I thought it’d be funny. But tears are…”

Furthermore, the footage also showed HYBE Chairman and producer Bang Si Hyuk preparing the necessary essentials for the idols. In a father-like gesture, Bang PD gifted the boys some face cream and hot packs before their departure.

As promised by the “Dynamite” singers, the group will return with complete members in 2025.

ARMYs’ promise to wait for BTS

With all the seven members now fulfilling their duties, ARMYs, overwhelmed with emotions, express their promise to wait for the K-pop powerhouse. The dedicated fandom trended the phrase “See you in 2025” after the members’ last content. 

On social media, fans showered the boys with well wishes and a healthy service. “Our paths will cross again. Until then, take care of yourself, serve well and come back safely!, one fan said.

https://twitter.com/ChartObsessed7/status/1734148042570514699

 

While some fans are saddened with the maknae line enlisting, some ARMYs remain optimistic especially with Jin’s nearing dischargment. Since he started his service in December 2022, the eldest member will finally be back in June 2024.

Featured image: All seven members of BTS reunite before the enlistment of RM, V, Jimin, and Jungkook. Credit: Twitter/BTS

 

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SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour’ With Na PD Gets a Release Date

Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN's 'Nana Tour.' Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

Carats, you’re about to start the new year right! SEVENTEEN’s new variety program Nana Tour has finally been revealed to premiere on January 5, warmly welcoming the year 2024. 

For those unfamiliar, Let’s Go Together: Nana Tour with SEVENTEEN is an upcoming travel show where the members and famous South Korean producer Na Young Suk explore Italy together. 

To note, the program is SEVENTEEN’s own version of Na PD’s famous Youth Over Flowers series. Said show is known for its unique aspect of tricking the unprepared celebrities into overseas trips. In its previous seasons, boy group WINNER, and actors from the dramas Reply 1988 and Reply 1994 have visited different countries across the world.

Interestingly, numerous clips of the SEVENTEEN getting “kidnapped” surfaced online last September. The quick Carats, SEVENTEEN’s fans, spotted the group at an airport accompanied by Na PD and a filming crew. 

In October, the group’s performance team leader Hoshi mentioned in a Weverse Live that they went to shoot the show after their concert in Japan. Later, it was revealed that the filming took place someplace in Europe. 

With the confirmation of the program’s airing, fans can’t wait to see the group’s bond with Na PD, as both are well-known for their entertainment tactics.

SEVENTEEN’s bond with Na PD

Carats are even more excited for Nana Tour as this will be SEVENTEEN and Na PD’s fourth project together.

The “God of Music” singers and the famous producer first met on HYBE LABEL’s Game Caterers episodes. Although only members Joshua, Jun, Mingyu, Hoshi, Minghao, Seungkwan, and Dino made an appearance, SEVENTEEN showcased their variety skills alongside fellow artists under the agency.

After the HYBE series, SEVENTEEN finally appeared in complete attendance for their own Game Caterers series. With a total of eight episodes, the “theater kids of K-Pop” played a series of games where they showed their wits. Through this project, the group also gained their chance for the Youth Over Flowers program as the grand prize in the last episode.

In their latest work together, Na PD released two clips of his new program Wageul Wageul also known as Chattering with Na. There, the group and the producers of Nana Tour had a chit-chat over alcoholic drinks. In addition, the crew also celebrated SEVENTEEN’s comeback as well as Dino’s mixtape release.

What to expect for ‘Nana Tour’ 

On Friday, December 15, a five-minute highlight reel of Nana Tour was released. As this is the first look at the upcoming travel variety show, fans were definitely excited to see more of the group’s adventures in Italy. 

Notably, leader S.coups wasn’t able to participate in the show as he was already on a health-related hiatus when it was filmed. Despite being physically absent, the highlight revealed that the SEVENTEEN members made sure that they’ll include S.coups in the show. One clip showed the group calling him, while other clips featured standees of the rapper in several filming locations. 

As part of the variety show, Nana Tour will also be releasing official merchandise and photobooks that fans can avail.

Featured image: Na PD releases a highlight teaser for SEVENTEEN’s ‘Nana Tour.’ Credit: YouTube/Channel Fullmoon

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PENTAGON’s Kino Establishes Own One-Man Agency

Kino shares concept photos under his new agency. Credit: Twitter/NAKED Official

Former PENTAGON member Kino is ready to start a new chapter in his career as he establishes his own one-man agency Naked.

On Friday, December 15, the idol shared the news on his social media platforms and opened up official accounts for his new agency. Following the bold name of his label, Kino aims to get one step closer to the public with his original and unadorned appearance.

“I have high expectations for the future I will face with Naked”, the singer said in his first greeting after the announcement. Moreover, Kino also promised to show a new side of him people have not seen before and asked for the fans’ interest and support.

Alongside the announcement, the label has unveiled Kino’s first concept photos to mark a new development in his career. In the series of photos, the artist appears to be enjoying a break on the beach with his friends.  “No one will ever be as entertained by us as us,” the caption read. 

Interestingly, this will be Kino’s return in the entertainment industry after his departure in his previous agency, Cube Entertainment, in October. Originally a member of the boy group PENTAGON, he spent seven years with Cube Entertainment since 2016.

Although Kino and four other members no longer signed a contract with Cube, the PENTAGON members have reassured the fans that the group will not disband.

Look forward to soloist Kino in the future

Finally set to start anew with his own label, Kino announced that he will soon hold a concert in January 2024 titled Born Naked. Said concert will be held at the Musina Garage in Seoul.

 

 

Prior to that, the singer will be meeting his fans in his solo performance titled Kino’s Housewarming Party. Said activity will be held at the Zepp Haneda music venue in Japan this December 22.

Featured image: Kino shares concept photos under his new agency. Credit: Twitter/NAKED Official

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Watch: APINK Radiates Joy in ‘Pink Christmas’ Music Video

APINK releases their holiday single 'Pink Christmas.' Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

APINK returns with new music to celebrate the holidays!

On Monday, December 11, South Korean girl group APINK dropped the official music video for their Yuletide season single “Pink Christmas.” The three-minute clip featured Eunji, Namjoo, Hayoung, Bomi and Chorong radiating a cheerful aura while celebrating the holidays together.

Notably, the jazz ballad track also showcased the members’ warm vocals as they expressed the heart-fluttering anticipation for Christmas. Moreover, Eunji and Namjoo were revealed to have participated in writing the lyrics of the said song. 

Prior to the music video release, APINK treated fans with their lovely visuals on the concept photos shared on their group’s social media accounts. In the pictures, the members showed off their alluring charms and lit up the atmosphere in their elegant red outfits.

APINK through the years

Known as one of vocal powerhouses in K-Pop, APINK made their official debut in 2011 under the entertainment agency IST Entertainment. 

Since then, the girl group received love both in the local and global scenes for their iconic hit tracks including “Mr. Chu,” “No No No,” “Dumhdurum,” among many others.

On their 12th year this 2023, APINK made their first official comeback as a five-member group after the departure of idol-actress Son Na Eun. In April, the quintet then proved their timeless prowess as their mini EP SELF dominated domestic music charts including Melon, Genie, and Bugs. Furthermore, the release debunked speculations of the group disbanding as members Chorong, Bomi, Namjoo, and Hayoung left the agency at the time. 

As a gift for Pink Panda, the group’s fandom, APINK quickly returned with “Pink Christmas” to blissfully commemorate the end of the year.

As of writing, the track is now available for streaming on multiple platforms including Melon, Spotify, Apple Music, and others.

Featured image: APINK releases their holiday single ‘Pink Christmas.’ Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

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Park So Dam Opens up About Battling Cancer

The actress shares behind-the-scenes photos from 'Death's Game.' Credit: Instagram/Park So Dam

Ahead of her upcoming series Death’s Game, Park So Dam got emotional as she looked back on her temporary break from the industry as she battled cancer. 

In the new fantasy mystery drama, the actress will star alongside esteemed actor Seo In Guk. Both stars promoted the project in the Youtube talk show of Urban Zakapa’s Cho Hyun Ah.  There, So Dam also became candid about her battle against cancer.

For those unaware, the Parasite actress was diagnosed with thyroid cancer back in 2021, which prompted her to take a break in acting to undergo treatment. When asked about her recovery journey, she revealed that she lost her voice for a bit, and took quite a while to recover.

The actress then opened up that she had a hard time at the start of Death’s Game filming, which surprised her co-star. “I cried everyday when I got home from filming”, she said.

As to why she didn’t tell the staff about it, So Dam then explained that she did not want to cause inconvenience to the crew and cast who put their trust in her. “I did not want to cause any trouble to everyone involved. So I tried to act like everything was fine. But sometimes, it was physically challenging to keep going.”

Despite the difficulties So Dam encountered, she reassured everyone that she is in a better state now. “I’ve become so much better physically and mentally and I can confidently say that I am doing well,”  she said. 

What to expect in ‘Death’s Game’ starring Park So Dam 

In the drama’s promotional press conference last December 13, So Dam, In Guk, and the rest of the cast delightedly talked about Death’s Game. 

The series will revolve around In Guk’s character, Choi Lee Jae who is unfortunately facing death and rebirth 12 times. Meanwhile, So Dam will play the role of Death herself and will guide Lee Jae with her judgment.

Moreover, the lead characters will be joined by a star-studded cast including breakthrough Moving actress Go Yoon Jung, Alchemy of Souls actor Lee Jae Wook, idol-actor Choi Si Won of Super Junior, and a lot more.

According to TVING, the eight-episode original series will premiere on December 15.

Featured image: The actress shares behind-the-scenes photos from ‘Death’s Game.’ Credit: Instagram/Park So Dam

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