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aespa’s Karina Seemingly Shades Other Girl Groups for Infighting

Karina recently spoke about the relationship she shares with the three other members of aespa in a high-profile interview. However, netizens believe that the idol’s comments threw some shade at other girl groups!

Karina Discusses Her Relationship with Other Aespa Members

In the latest episode of Rolling Stone‘s “Musicians on Musicians” video series, aespa and international artist Grimes interviewed each other. At one point, Grimes asked Karina about working with three other members.

“How is it like working with all four of you and negotiating and all that?” the Canadian singer asked. “In many ways, it’s great but every time I do have a creative partner, it is so fulfilling, but sometimes you fight.”

Interestingly, Karina pointed out that she considers the other aespa members as family and that they naturally get along well.

“Even though all four of us have different personalities, I think we come together well. And we just get along well as people,” she said. “And because we understand each other well, even without saying anything, we also work well together.”

Karina then continued by sharing how other idols tend to fight with their members. Although she didn’t specify any names, many believe she was referring to other girl groups.

“Honestly, if you look at other K-pop groups, people fight a lot, and there are a lot of teams that don’t work well together. But even from the beginning, we didn’t have those issues,” she said. “And if a conflict arises, we try to resolve it immediately. So I think we’re able to work well without any issues.”

It’s an interesting comment but not exactly fresh news. After all, disagreements are natural in any group of people who must work together to achieve a goal. If anything, Karina’s comments confirmed that the members of aespa learned to accept each other’s personalities and worked out their differences.

aespa is currently preparing for their fourth EP ‘Drama’ which is set for release on November 10, 2023.

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Former EXO Member Kris Wu Reportedly Writing Songs in Prison

It looks like Kris Wu is staying active musically amidst his current incarceration. A panelist on a Chinese television program has sparked controversy by claiming that the former EXO member is composing music and participating in talent competitions while in prison.

Kris Wu’s Alleged Prison Activities Revealed

The update regarding Kris Wu’s activities came to light through screen captures from the television show that were shared on Twitter. According to the post, the former EXO member “is writing songs with positive vibes and participating in prison talent shows.”

Kris Wu’s legal issues began when a 19-year-old Chinese college student made allegations against him on July 8, 2021. The student accused Wu of engaging in a pattern of sexual assault involving multiple women and girls, some of whom were underage, while they were unconscious and under the influence of alcohol. According to the victim, she was sexually assaulted while intoxicated in December 2020 when she was 18 and claimed to speak on behalf of at least seven other victims. Two of the victims were reportedly minors at the time of the alleged crimes.

The Fall of Kris Wu

Wu vehemently denied the allegations, leading to investigations by the Beijing Public Security Bureau and other authorities. The scandal resulted in various companies, including Porsche, Bulgari, and Lancôme, severing ties with the artist. They either dropped him as a brand ambassador or suspended existing endorsement deals.

Wu was subsequently detained by police in July 2021 and was formally arrested the following month. The legal proceedings surrounding the case continued, ultimately resulting in a verdict. On November 25, 2022, the Chaoyang District People’s Court in Beijing sentenced Kris Wu to a total of 13 years in prison, with additional deportation from China upon completing his sentence. He faced charges related to rape and group lewdness and was also fined ¥600 million yuan (approximately US$84 million) for tax evasion.

The recent television program’s claim about Kris Wu’s involvement in music and talent competitions during his incarceration has stirred public debate and raised questions about the accuracy of the information. It remains to be seen how this situation will develop and whether further details about Kris Wu’s activities will emerge.

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Stray Kids Earn 2nd US Gold RIAA Certification For ‘5-STAR’

Stray Kids has achieved a remarkable feat in the United States, as their latest album has been officially certified gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA). This prestigious certification is granted when an album reaches over 500,000 units sold in the U.S. Amazingly, this is the second time that the idol group has earned gold RIAA certification in the span of three years!

Stray Kids Confirms Gold RIAA Certification for ‘5-STAR’

The album in question is “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” and it holds a special place in Stray Kids’ discography. Notably, this marks the group’s first album to receive the gold RIAA certification, signifying a significant milestone in their international success. Not surprisingly, they excitedly posted about the certification on social media.

The latest accomplishment is particularly noteworthy because it adds to Stray Kids’ previous RIAA certification for their 2020 hit song “God’s Menu” which achieved gold status earlier in the same month.

By achieving this latest certification, Stray Kids joins an exclusive club of K-pop artists who have received recognition from the RIAA. They are only the second K-pop act, following the immense global success of BTS, to earn gold RIAA certifications for both an album and a single. This achievement underscores Stray Kids’ growing influence in the U.S. music market.

Furthermore, Stray Kids’ gold RIAA certification for “★★★★★ (5-STAR)” places them among the elite K-pop acts that have achieved this distinction. Prior to Stray Kids, only BTS and TXT had albums certified as gold in the United States. This accomplishment solidifies Stray Kids’ position as a major player in the international music scene.

The remarkable achievement is a testament to Stray Kids’ talent and the dedicated support of their global fanbase. The group has made substantial strides in the U.S. music industry, and their success continues to reach new heights. Congratulations to Stray Kids for this well-deserved recognition and their exciting accomplishment in the United States!

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BTS’ ‘DNA’ and BLACKPINK’s ‘Whistle’ Inducted in Korea World Music Culture Hall of Fame

BTS poses for their 2022 Festa Family portrait. Credit: Facebook/BTS

K-pop sensations BTS and BLACKPINK have once again made history in the world of music! As their respective hit songs “DNA” and “Whistle” have been honored with induction into the prestigious Korean World Music Culture Hall of Fame. 

According to a Herald Economy report, the 2023 Korea World Music Culture Hall of Fame has announced its first inductees. The list, which consists of 21 songs – 20 domestic and one overseas – was made by the Korean Federation of Copyright Societies. 

Furthermore, the report noted that the inducted list aims to convey universal human values such as love, peace, freedom, and happiness to the world. Which is why their chosen songs span the spectrum of Korean music, from classics like Go Bok-su’s “Living in a Foreign Country” to K-pop releases that garnered global popularity. 

Notably, it’s BTS’ iconic track “DNA” and BLACKPINK’s hit song “Whistle” that made it to the list. Both were recognized for being an “essential song for the sustainable development of K-pop globally.” 

Other Korean songs inducted in the list include releases from Cho Yong Pil, Seo Taiji and Boys, Choi Jin Hee, Lee Dong Won, Patty Kim, and more. Among the 21 songs inducted, “Blowing in the Wind” by Bob Dylan is the first overseas track to be included. 

Moreover, the report mentioned that the Korean World Music Culture Hall of Fame plans to announce a new set of inductees once a month following this first announcement. Additionally, the Korean Federation of Copyright Organizations believes that this list will provide hope and support to music, culture, and arts enthusiasts and organizers at home and abroad. 

BTS & BLACKPINK fans rejoice!

Given that this is the first for the initiative, fans of both BTS and BLACKPINK couldn’t help but celebrate that songs from the group were included in the list. For them, this achievement not only solidifies their status as global music icons but also acknowledges the profound impact they’ve had on the Korean music industry and the world.

In August 2016, BLACKPINK made their debut with tracks “BOOMBAYAH” and “Whistle” on the single album Square One. Particularly, “Whistle” was even recognized by Billboard as one of the best releases of 2016, a first for a newly debuted K-pop group. Since then, the four-piece act has firmly established themselves as a global music sensation. 

As for BTS, this recent inclusion is just another addition to their long-list of achievements. With the 2017 song “DNA,”  the K-pop juggernaut set several records for the group, including being the first Korean boy group music video to hit one billion views on YouTube. 

Although both songs are already several years old, it’s refreshing to see how they’re still achieving new feats until today.

Featured image: BTS poses for their 2022 Festa Family portrait. Credit: Facebook/BTS

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TWICE’s Chaeyoung Collaborates With Coco & Clair Clair

Coco & Clair Claire shares photo with the TWICE member. Credit: Instagram/Coco & Clair Clair

Chaeyoung of K-pop girl group TWICE and American duo Coco & Clair Clair is a collaboration we didn’t see coming! On Wednesday, October 25, they released the collaborative track “Pop Star — Chaeyoung Remix.” 

Notably, “Pop Star” is the final track on Coco & Clair Clair’s album SEXY (DELUXE) edition. It will be released on November 10. 

First announced in September, the collaboration between Chaeyoung and Coco & Clair Clair garnered interest in the industry as both acts have different musical styles. 

After it was revealed that the TWICE member was listed as a featured artist, ONCEs especially were excited about the collaboration. Given that the K-pop act is known for their joyful flair while the American duo is leaning more to synth-pop. 

With the remix now released, fans were treated to a very interesting collaboration as the artists sang about being a pop star. 

As per the Genius website, part of Chaeyoung’s verse goes: “Hey, babe, do you want to see my perfect lifestyle? / But you better be ready, ’cause it’s gonna be wild /  So thank you for feedback, thank you for your jokes / Thank you for your memes, thank you for your roasts.” 

Following the release of the single, Coco & Clair Clair also released behind-the-scenes photos with Chaeyoung. 

TWICE’s Chaeyoung expands her musicality 

For fans of Chaeyoung, the collaboration with Coco & Clair Clair just expanded the idol’s musical portfolio. 

Notably, Chaeyoung was the first member of TWICE to receive writing credits. Since 2016, the rapper-singer has contributed to many of TWICE’s songs. Among them are “Sweet Talker,” “Strawberry,” “Handle It,” “How U Doin’,” and “Celebrate.” 

Moreover, fans are hoping that this would be the start of more collaboration between Chaeyoung and other artists. 

As for her TWICE activities, the nine-piece act is currently embarking on their fifth world tour Ready to Be. Recently, the group marked their eight debut anniversary with a pop-up store and fan meeting.

Featured image: Coco & Clair Claire shares photo with the TWICE member. Credit: Instagram/Coco & Clair Clair

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Fans Outraged at SM Entertainment’s Treatment for 2024 Season’s Greetings of EXO

EXO members pose for their album 'EXIST.' Credit: Facebook/EXO

Fans of K-pop boy group EXO were sent abuzz with disappointment as they discovered that the group was conspicuously absent from the lineup of the highly-anticipated 2024 SM Entertainment Season’s Greetings. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Kwangya released the promotional poster for their Season’s Greetings. In it are a multitude of SM Entertainment’s artists, including beloved acts like TVXQ, Super Junior, Red Velvet, NCT 127, NCT DREAM, WayV, aespa and even the rookie boy group RIIZE.

Among the groups under SM Entertainment, three were noticeably absent: Girls’ Generation, SHINee, and EXO. However, both Girls’ Generation and SHINee were quick to explain that the Season’s Greetings for their groups will have pre-orders by November. Furthermore, they explained that the two groups had a different schedule compared to other SM Entertainment artists given their prior schedule. 

Meanwhile, EXO didn’t release a statement about their Season’s Greetings until Friday, October 27. Similar to Girl’s Generation and SHINee, theirs will also have a separate schedule. Other details about pre-order for EXO’s Seasons Greetings will be announced through a separate notice at a later date.

Although SM Entertainment has finally confirmed that EXO is still releasing a Season’s Greetings for 2024, fans are still unhappy as to why it took several days before they released an explanation about the delay. The omission already left fans puzzled and anxious about the group’s future activities with the agency. 

On social media, fans lamented as to how the agency failed to properly promote EXO, especially in light of recent contract disputes and member departures from the group.

EXO vs SM Entertainment in 2023

Notably, thi puzzling exclusion comes at a time when EXO has been navigating a series of ups and downs with their agency SM Entertainment. 

In June, fans were taken aback when it was revealed that three EXO members, Baekhyun, Xiumin, and Chen, had issued contract termination notices to SM Entertainment. The EXO-CBX sub-united filed to terminate their contracts with SM Entertainment, citing alleged “mistreatment and unfair contract terms.” In response, SM Entertainment refuted these claims. After a three-week legal battle, both parties had reached a settlement. 

Then in October, new reports emerged that two more members,  Chanyeol and Sehun, were potentially transferring to another agency to pursue solo careers. But SM Entertainment swiftly denied these rumors, emphasizing that the contract signed by the members last year remains valid. 

Shortly after, SM Entertainment also confirmed that D.O. would continue his solo activities under a newly established label. Additionally, he will simultaneously maintain his connection with SM Entertainment for EXO activities.

Amidst these developments, leader Suho assured fans that EXO will continue as a full group. 

Featured image: EXO members pose for their album ‘EXIST.’ Credit: Facebook/EXO

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NCT’s Taeyong and SEVENTEEN’s Woozi Show Off Adorable Friendship

NCT's Taeyong participates in SEVENTEEN's 'God of Music' challenge with Woozi. Credit: YouTube/SEVENTEEN

In the world of K-pop, where talents and friendships often flourish behind the scenes, fans are always eager for glimpses into the personal lives of their favorite idols. Recently, NCT 127‘s Taeyong surprised fans during a live Instagram session by introducing an unexpected guest: SEVENTEEN‘s Woozi. 

As this is the first time that the two idols were seen together, fans couldn’t help but be curious  as to how these two K-pop powerhouses came to know each other. According to Taeyong they became friends because of their mutual passion for creating music. “We became close because we both liked composing music,” he said.

 

Moreover, the NCT 127 leader didn’t shy away from expressing his admiration for Woozi’s capabilities as a producer. During the live session, he revealed that he played some of his work for the SEVENTEEN member, who provided valuable feedback that boosted his confidence. Another proof of their tight friendship was that Taeyong was able to listen to the demo of “God of Music.” 

 

Throughout the live session, the two idols were also wary about dropping spoilers for their still-unannounced activities. At one point, Woozi told Taeyong that SEVENTEEN has imposed a fine for any member who drops spoilers. To which, the SM Entertainment artist was quickly taken aback. Which left Woozi quickly clarifying that it’s more of an inside joke within the group than a strict policy. 

Taeyong x Woozi collaboration?

Aside from the two idols sharing snippets from their daily lives, fans couldn’t help but adore the unexpected friendship between the two. At the start of the Instagram live, the “Super” singer mentioned that it was his first time appearing on someone else’s live stream, and the “Fact Check” singer expressed his honor at having him as a guest.

Moreover, Woozi also treated viewers to a dance to Taeyong’s solo track “Shalala.”  To which, the NCT member suggested that they film a TikTok dance challenge together, preferably their group’s latest comeback “Fact Check“.

And the two did film several dance challenge, proving their genuine bond! On Friday, October 27, they released one video for NCT 127′s “Fact Check“ and two videos for SEVENTEEN’s “God of Music” dance challenge. One video showed them doing the track’s point choreography, while another showed them sitting down and dancing adorably. 

Apart from dance challenges, Taeyong also mentioned during the live session his desire to receive a song from Woozi tailored to his style. To which the SEVENTEEN producer agreed, promising he’ll create something cool for his hyung. 

Now that they’ve kept their promise of doing a TikTok dance challenge, fans are eagerly anticipating a music collaboration between the two. Nevertheless, it’s safe to say that their musical collaborations and interactions will continue to be a source of joy and inspiration for many of their fans. 

Featured image: NCT’s Taeyong participates in SEVENTEEN’s ‘God of Music’ challenge with Woozi. Credit: YouTube/SEVENTEEN

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Listen: LOONA and ARTMS’ HaSeul Releases ‘Plastic Candy’

HaSeul releases new digital single 'Plastic Candy.' Credit: Twitter/ARTMS

LOONA and ARTMS member HaSeul has treated fans with new music through the release of her digital single “Plastic Candy.” 

On Thursday, HaSeul released “Plastic Candy” on digital platforms before performing it at her concert Music Studio 81.8Hz. 

Prior to the release of the track, ARTMS released a behind-the-scenes video of the idol recording the song. 

“I was very nervous when recording it,” she said. “This song is full of dreaminess. If you think about the lyrics, you will find this more interesting.” 

Notably, “Plastic Candy” is HaSeul’s first solo music in nearly seven years. In 2016, she released her two-track self-titled single album as part of LOONA’s pre-debut project. 

Meanwhile, the Music Studio 81.8Hz is also the idol’s first solo show since signing with Modhaus. Set from October 26 to 29, the four-night show will also feature one of her ARTMS bandmates – Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, and Choerry – on each night of the concert.

HaSeul as a MODHAUS artist

In June, HaSeul signed with MODHAUS and joined the agency’s ARTMS project. 

Notably, Modhaus was founded by LOONA’s former creative director Jaden Jeong. And the ARTMS project featured the activities of LOONA members Heejin, Kim Lip, Jinsoul, Choerry, and Haseul. 

Her transfer to Modhaus follows the suspension of her exclusive contract with BlockBerry Creative. All 12 members of LOONA have left BlockBerry, after winning a string of lawsuits to suspend their contracts. 

Under MODHAUS, Odd Eye Circle, the sub-unit composed of Choerry, Jinsoul, and Kim Lip, released their album Version Up in June. Meanwhile, Heejin is also set to make her solo debut on October 31. 

As for the other LOONA members, Chuu made her solo debut in October with the EP Howl. Meanwhile, members HyunJin, YeoJin, Vivi, Go Won, and HyeJu have formed the group LOOSSEMBLE (LOONA Assemble) under the agency CTDENM. 

On several accounts, the members have expressed their desire to have a LOONA reunion and even showed support for each other’s activities. 

Featured image: HaSeul releases new digital single ‘Plastic Candy.’ Credit: Twitter/ARTMS

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The Boyz to return with ‘Sixth Sense’

IST Entertainment shares photo of The Boyz from their 'Christmas in August' album. Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

Mark your calendars, DEOBIS! K-pop boy group The Boyz is returning with new music on November 20 through Sixth Sense. 

On Wednesday, October 25, IST Entertainment confirmed that The Boyz is gearing up for their comeback. 

“They will start their comeback by releasing Sixth Sense, the second part of their second full-length album PHANTASY,” the agency said in a press release. 

Notably, this will mark The Boyz’ first comeback in three months following the release of Christmas in August. To recall, Christmas in August, which carries the title track “Lip Gloss,” served as the first part of the group’s PHANTASY trilogy. 

Other details about Sixth Sense, such as its title track, concept photos, and number of songs, have yet to be released. 

But it can be recalled that The Boyz have earlier released posters for their PHANTASY trilogy. In which, the poster for Sixth Sense featured a drive-in theater. Moreover, it had a different vibe and concept as to the beach featured in the poster for Christmas in August. 

The Boyz’ PHANTASY trilogy

In July, IST Entertainment first revealed that the group’s second full-length album PHANTASY will be divided into three parts. 

Additionally, they noted that the three installments will all be released by the second half of 2023. The first part, Christmas in August, was released in August. 

As for its third installment, it will be titled Love Letter. For its sequence poster, Love Letter featured a field of snow. However, there’s no additional details yet about the third installment. 

PHANTASY serves as The Boyz’s first full-length album in more than three years following REVEAL, which was released in February 2020. As for their latest release prior to PHANTASY, it was the February 2023 mini-album BE AWAKE. 

Initially a 12-member boy group, The Boyz made their debut in December 2017. However, Hwall left in October 2019 due to health reasons. 

Currently, the group is composed of Sangyeon, Jacob, Hyunjae, Younghoon, Kevin, Juyeon, New, Q, Sunwoo, Ju Haknyeon, and Eric. 

In between the releases for the group’s PHANTASY installments, The Boyz is also embarking on their second world tour ZENERATION.

Featured image: IST Entertainment shares photo of The Boyz from their ‘Christmas in August’ album. Credit: Twitter/IST Entertainment

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Look: ATEEZ Drops Teaser for ‘The World Ep. FIN: WILL’

Members pose for individual photos in 'The World EP. FIN: WILL' Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

Save the date, ATINYs! K-pop boy group ATEEZ is returning with the new album The World EP. FIN: WILL 

On Wednesday, October 25, the “Bouncy” hitmakers announced their plans of releasing the final installment for their The World trilogy. 

In the teaser for the third album, graffiti over the wall shows the words Historia (History),  Amistad (Friendship), Beliefs, a rabbit silhouette, and the mini album’s title. 

Notably, The World EP. FIN: WILL will come six months after the release of their The World EP 2: OUTLAW album in June. For those unfamiliar, the first part of the trilogy started with the July 2022 release The World EP. 1: Movement. 

As seen in the individual teasers, ATEEZ members also pose with a dark, rebellious theme. Which prompts fans to anticipate the concept of the upcoming album, as many are excited to see how the group will conclude the trilogy. 

 

Additionally, ATEEZ also released a scheduler for their pending comeback. Aside from the usual concept photos, posters, and tracklist, the group hinted at two activities set for November 19 to November 23 and November 24. 

Meanwhile, the album and official music video for the title track will be out on December 1. Other details, such as the number of songs in the album, have yet to be announced. 

As of writing, it remains unclear whether member Jongho will be participating in the activities for the upcoming album as he’s currently on hiatus. In August, KQ Entertainment announced that the idol has experienced “extreme pain” in his leg. 

Five years with ATEEZ

The announcement about The World EP. FIN: WILL came shortly after the group marked their fifth debut anniversary. 

In a special interview video, ATEEZ looked back around their idol journey. 

 

“I hope we continue to grow and for 2024, we’ve been growing and getting better all this time. So I believe we’ll be at a higher place. Even when we’re up there, we won’t lose our focus,” member Yunho said. 

Moreover, they also expressed their gratitude to their fans who continue to support them. “I felt that the love for us is truly extraordinary. I love ATINY just as much as I started,” Seonghwa shared. 

Composed of Hongjoong, Seonghwa, Yunho, Yeosang, San, Mingi, Wooyoung, and Jongho, ATEEZ debuted in October 2018 with the song “Pirate KIng.” 

Currently, the group is embarking on their The Fellowship: Break the Wall world concert tour. 

Featured image: Members pose for individual photos in ‘The World EP. FIN: WILL.’ Credit: Facebook/ATEEZ

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