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Wonbin Dishes on Favorite RIIZE Member and Other K-Pop Group Biases

There is little doubt that RIIZE has been making waves in the K-pop industry as one of the fifth-generation boy groups under SM Entertainment. Still, they all started out as fans who had biases in other idol groups. But which K-pop stars do Wonbin look up to? The idol dished on his favorite members and even revealed which member of RIIZE he admires!

RIIZE’s Wonbin Reveals His NCT, WayV, SEVENTEEN, and TXT Biases

In a recent video call event, a fan decided to inquire about Wonbin’s biases from other boy groups, including those outside the SM Entertainment umbrella. When asked about his favorite member from NCT Dream, Wonbin promptly responded with Mark‘s name. Continuing the inquiry, the fan wondered about members from NCT’s other subunits, NCT 127 and WayV. Wonbin revealed that Taeyong and Xiaojun were his favorites from these respective groups.

The fan then expanded the scope to non-SM Entertainment idols, beginning with the Pledis Entertainment group SEVENTEEN. To this, Wonbin expressed his fondness for Hoshi. Transitioning to TXT, he indicated Yeonjun as his favorite member.

Lastly, the fan asked Wonbin to name his favorite member from his own group. In good spirits, Wonbin humorously declared Sohee as his favorite RIIZE member within their own group. Still, fans believe that he gets along well with Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Seunghan, and Anton.

Wonbin’s responses shed light on his passion for K-Pop, revealing his appreciation for members from various idol groups and confirming that he has his biases just like everybody else. With his evident enthusiasm for the genre, fans can hope to see him collaborating with some of his favorite artists in the future.

RIIZE officially debuted with the single album ‘Get a Guitar’ in September. They are currently preparing for their first comeback with the single “Talk Saxy” on October 27, 2023.

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BTS KPOP NEWS LATEST STORIES

BTS V Shares Cheerful Update Following Stalker Scare

A BTS stalker took things a little too far and immediately learned the consequences of their actions. The woman has reportedly been arrested for stalking BTS member V in his private residence. Nevertheless, Kim Taehyung remains cheerful, assuring ARMYs with wholesome posts.

BTS Stalker Arrested for Trying to Invade V’s Privacy

Seoul’s Gangnam Police have taken action regarding a disturbing incident of stalking involving BTS’s V. Reports from October 27 reveal that a woman in her 30s is under investigation for stalking the renowned K-pop artist.

The incident unfolded when the woman allegedly followed V into an elevator at his place of residence. Shockingly, it is reported that she had been waiting for V in the parking lot of his residence and subsequently pursued him into the building. The unsettling episode concluded with the woman fleeing the scene. However, she left behind a rather concerning piece of evidence – a marriage license application bearing her name.

Since the incident, BIGHIT Music confirmed the news and assured ARMYs that actions will be taken against the stalker.

“In response to stalking crimes which threaten the safety of our artists and intrude on their privacy, we are exercising a zero tolerance rule,” the statement read.

The distressing news has understandably sent shockwaves through the global BTS fan community, prompting fans to express their deep concerns and frustrations on social media platforms.

BTS V Breaks Silence Since Stalker Incident

In response to the incident, V took it upon himself to provide assurance to his devoted fans regarding his well-being. He shared updates on his current status and safety through both Weverse and Instagram, aiming to allay concerns and fears about the situation.

BIGHIT MUSIC previously issued an official statement, making it abundantly clear that they are taking robust legal measures against individuals who have committed various malicious online activities directed at BTS. These actions range from defamation, stalking, and sexual harassment to disseminating false information and posting hate comments. The label has made it unequivocal that they will not tolerate any violations of the group’s artistic and personal rights.

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G-Dragon Breaks Silence on Drug Abuse Allegations

G-Dragon has finally spoken up about his recent controversy. The BIGBANG leader officially addressed the drug abuse allegations and assured fans that he had done nothing wrong.

BIGBANG Member G-Dragon Issues Statement Regarding Drug Abuse Allegations

On October 27, G-Dragon issued an official statement through his legal representatives. Although the statement is brief, it assures VIPs that the BIGBANG member is innocent of the recent drug abuse allegations.

“This is G-Dragon,” the statement read. “First of all, it is not true that I used drugs. Additionally, I would like to clarify that I have nothing to do with the news reports about violating the Narcotics Act that was released by the media.”

“However, I know that many people are concerned, so I will actively and fully cooperate with the investigation being conducted by the authorities,” it concluded.

This is the first time that G-Dragon has addressed the issue after it was reported that the police were looking for him. On October 25, it was reported that G-Dragon had been booked by the Incheon Metropolitan Police Agency under suspicion of violating the Act on the Control of Narcotics, Etc. Importantly, the police clarified that this case is distinct from that of actor Lee Sun Gyun, who is presently under investigation for drug use and recently withdrew from a television drama.

Since then, those who are associated with G-Dragon have shared various statements. Chanel, who the BIGBANG member has been representing as their global brand ambassador, was one of the first to comment on the issue.

“We are aware of the ongoing issue that is G-Dragon’s case,” Chanel’s statement read. “However, we have no official position to share at this time.”

YG Entertainment also issued a statement and confirmed that G-Dragon is no longer signed with the label. “[G-Dragon] is currently not affiliated with our agency as an artist, making it challenging for us to issue an official response,” they said.

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RIIZE to Release Soundtrack Album for 3D Animation ‘Sealook’

The group releases a teaser for their comeback single 'Talk Saxy.' Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

Exciting news await fans of monster rookies RIIZE as the K-pop group is confirmed to release an original soundtrack album for the beloved 3D animation series Sealook. 

On Wednesday, October 25, Million Volt, the animation studio behind the series, confirmed that they’re collaborating with RIIZE. 

Accordingly, the soundtrack album is set to include the songs “Happy! Happy! Happy!” and “Look at me Sealook,” both in their Korean and English versions.

Moreover, “Happy! Happy! Happy!” is described as a calming pop song while “Look at me Sealook” has colorful and lively tones. 

To tease the collaboration, Sealook has been releasing teasers and snippets for the upcoming tracks.

For those unfamiliar, Sealook is a 3D animation series that premiered in South Korea in December 2022. It is co-produced by The Pinkfong Company, who is known for the television sensation Baby Shork, and Million Volt. According to its press release, the series is a “mockumentary-style sitcom about the daily lives of ‘fun-loving seals.’” 

Notably, Sealook features a unique format – a series of 90-second-long short-form videos, completely devoid of dialogues. Despite this, it has managed to amass an impressive following with over six million subscribers and one billion accumulated channel views on its official channel in less than a year since its premiere. 

RIIZE is set to release their soundtrack album for Sealook on November 4. 

RIIZE is on the roll

Following the news, fans of RIIZE can’t help but be excited for the group’s first OST participation. Especially that the act is collaborating with a popular series just months after their debut. 

Composed of members Shotaro, Eunseok, Sungchan, Wonbin, Seunghan, Sohee, and Anton, RIIZE is the latest addition to SM Entertainment’s roster of artists. Interestingly, two of the group members, Shotaro and Sungchan, have previously made their debut in 2020 as part of NCT. 

On September 4, the septet officially made their debut with the song “Get A Guitar.”

Prior to their debut, the group has already gained worldwide popularity as evident on how they became the fastest K-pop group to reach 1 million followers on Instagram. 

Adding to the excitement, RIIZE has also announced that they’re set to make their first comeback. On October 27, the group will be releasing the new single “Talk Saxy.” Definitely, a lot of things to look forward to with the rookie boy group! 

Facebook: The group releases a teaser for their comeback single ‘Talk Saxy.’ Credit: Facebook/RIIZE

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SEVENTEEN to Appear in Na PD’s ‘Waggle Waggle’

Na PD shares photo of SEVENTEEN for 'Waggle Waggle.' Credit: Instagram/Na PD

CARATs are in for a treat as K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN is collaborating anew with  Na Young Seok, aka Na PD, for the upcoming variety show Waggle Waggle. 

On Wednesday, October 25, a teaser for the episode was released. In the video, SEVENTEEN’s Wonwoo is seen inviting the rest of the members to have a one-on-one drinking session with him.

As seen in the exchanges, members DK, Minghao, and Woozi rejected the offer, while Vernon didn’t pick up his call. But Seungkwan, one of the members who is active in variety shows, was quick to point out that Wonwoo is inviting them because he’s filming a show. 

“I need to contact a few people on a regular basis,” the rapper noted. 

Prior to the teaser, Na PD has first revealed that he filmed a new variety show with SEVENTEEN through a YouTube live.

During the live session, it was disclosed that he had dinner with the group and exchanged stories while drinking beer. At one point, he even hinted that fans should anticipate a face-off between members Seungkwan and Hoshi in Waggle Waggle. 

To the fans’ delight, Na PD also assured fans that leader S.coups, who’s on a break due to health concerns, appeared in Waggle Waggle. 

Other details about the show are still kept under wraps but the Waggle Waggle episode featuring SEVENTEEN is set to premiere on Saturday, October 28. 

‘Waggle Waggle’ and more: SEVENTEEN x Na PD’s collab

Following the news, K-pop fans and entertainment show enthusiasts can’t help but be excited as both SEVENTEEN and Na PD are known for their variety chops.

For instance, the K-pop group’s own web series Going Seventeen has gained a fandom of its own. Meanwhile, Na PD is already a known figure in South Korean entertainment. Notably, he’s the one behind successful variety programs such as 2 Days & 1 Night, Grandpas Over Flowers, New Journey to the West, and Three Meals a Day.  

Moreover, this marks another collaboration between SEVENTEEN and Na PD for 2023 alone. A proof that the two parties have formed a tight bond. 

In early 2023, SEVENTEEN appeared in Na PD’s Youtube series The Game Caterers 2. There, the group luckily won two wishes. One of which is making Na PD do a dance challenge for “Super” while the other is starring in their Youth Over Flowers own episode. 

In September, the group was confirmed to have filmed for the series in Europe. For those unfamiliar, Youth Over Flowers is a travel variety show wherein the staff tricked the cast members into spontaneous trips. 

As of writing, Na PD has yet to announce a release date for SEVENTEEN’s Youth Over Flowers. 

Featured image: Na PD shares photo of SEVENTEEN for ‘Waggle Waggle.’ Credit: Instagram/Na PD

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LE SSERAFIM’s Kim Chaewon to Resume Schedules Next Week

Kim Chaewon is ready to resume activities! The LE SSERAFIM member has been confirmed to join the rest of the group in their schedules starting next week.

Kim Chaewon Will Officially Resume LE SSERAFIM Activities Starting Next Week

On October 26, SourceMusic officially confirmed that Kim Chaewon will be resuming her schedules with LE SSERAFIM starting next week. The agency also explained that the idol was ill, which led to her absence in the previous week.

“Kim Chaewon has been taking a break from her activities while recovering from the aftereffects of the Influenza A virus since last week,” the statement read. “Medical experts have now concluded that she may resume her schedules beginning next week, and so she will return to activities on Wednesday, November 1.”

“Source Music will continue to provide support for its artists so that the artists may greet fans with a healthy image,” it concluded.

This is an awesome update considering that LE SSERAFIM is set to release a digital single titled “Perfect Night.” The release comes as part of a special collaboration with the video game “Overwatch 2” and is scheduled for October 27, 2023. As part of this exciting collaboration, the group will also be performing at the highly anticipated video game convention ‘BlizzCon 2023,’ taking place at the Anaheim Convention Center, with their performance set for November 4, 2023. With Kim Chaewon’s return, the idol will be able to perform the new song with the rest of the group.

This isn’t the first time that Kim Chaewon has fallen ill this month. LE SSERAFIM previously cancelled their “FLAME RISES” concerts in Bangkok, Thailand in the first week of October. Although the concerts were scheduled to take place on October 7 and 8, the dates were ultimately cancelled after three members including Kim Chaewon, Huh Yunjin, and Kazuha were diagnosed with Type A influenza.

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‘Persona: Sulli’ Finally Gets Netflix Release Date

It has been a long wait but Sulli’s final project finally got a Netflix release date. “Persona: Sulli” is officially confirmed for its streaming premiere in November. 

“Persona: Sulli” Netflix Release Date Finally Revealed

Mystic Story, the production company, has officially announced the release of “Persona: Sulli”. The highly anticipated dual-part project is set to premiere in November. The global streaming release on Netflix will begin on November 13, featuring both a short drama film titled “4: Clean Island” and a comprehensive documentary film titled “Dear Jinri”.

“4: Clean Island” unfolds a captivating narrative centered around a unique pig at an unconventional immigration checkpoint. The short film follows the pig named 4 as it dreams of relocating to Clean Island, considered the purest place on Earth. However, it must first confess its sins to continue its journey.

The film stars Choi Jinri (Sulli), Hwang Miyoung, and Park Gabi, promising powerful performances that will leave a lasting impact. The script for “4: Clean Island” is penned by Kim Jihye, who is also renowned for her work in the film “Wish” and the drama “Lost”. The co-direction is managed by Hwang Soo-ah, a director with extensive experience in music videos and films, including “Why Did You Come to My House?”

Sulli Documentary Gets Netflix Release Date

The second part of “Persona: Sulli” is titled “Dear Jinri”. The documentary explores the life of Choi Jinri, offering an exploration of her journey as an actress and artist. It also delves into her thoughts, contemplations, and experiences throughout her 20s. The documentary features interviews that provide a unique and intimate perspective on Sulli’s life.

“Dear Jinri” is directed by Jung Yoon-suk, a highly acclaimed director with a presence at various film festivals. He is als known for his works, including “Non-Fiction Diary”, “Bamseom Pirates Seoul Inferno”, and “Eyebrows”.

Prior to its Netflix release date, “4: Clean Island” also had a limited screening at Laika Cinema in Seodaemun Gu, Seoul, in September. “Dear Jinri” was also invited to the Wide Angle Section’s Documentary Showcase at the 28th Busan International Film Festival where it had its world premiere.

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Seventeen’s Mingyu to Take Temporary Break Due to Health Concerns

Mingyu poses for a concept photo of 'SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.' Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

Mingyu of K-pop boy group SEVENTEEN won’t be participating in promotional activities for their album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN in the coming days due to health concerns.

On Thursday, October 26, PLEDIS Entertainment released a statement about the rapper’s health condition. 

According to the agency, Mingyu experienced a “sudden, crippling lower back pain that warranted medical treatment.” After his medical examination, the healthcare staff advised the idol to “take time off and have his recovery process monitored.”

Moreover, PLEDIS Entertainment continued that the artist expressed his desire to still push through with the scheduled activities. However, to accommodate his recovery, the company has decided to exercise flexibility in the idol’s participation throughout the promotion period.

With this, the agency announced that Mingyu will be missing out the music shows and fansign events set for this week. Notably, PLEDIS Entertainment assured fans that they will provide updates on when the artist will return to his activities. 

“We will do our best to aid Mingyu in his recovery so that he may return in full health to his fans as soon as possible,” they added. 

Mingyu and S.coups sit out promotions for ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN’ 

Following the news, Mingyu took to Weverse to apologize to the SEVENTEEN members. 

But the rest of the group were quick to admonish the need for an apology, emphasizing that they should focus on taking care of themselves first. 

Even S.coups, who’s also sitting out the promotional activities for the group’s 11th mini-album, left a comment. “Let’s not get sick, health come first,” he wrote. 

To note, the SEVENTEEN leader sustained a tear in his left anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) resulting in him needing surgery. As he’s currently focusing on rehabilitation and treatment, PLEDIS Entertainment has earlier announced that he won’t be active for group promotions this time around. 

On October 23, SEVENTEEN released the album SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN, which carries the title track “God of Music.” Interestingly, the album has set several records for the K-pop group already. 

Featured image: Mingyu poses for a concept photo of ‘SEVENTEENTH HEAVEN.’ Credit: Facebook/SEVENTEEN

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ZEROBASEONE’s Sung Hanbin Graces the Pages of His University’s Official Magazine

Sung Hanbin, the charismatic leader of the K-pop group ZEROBASEONE, recently sat down for an intimate chat with his alma mater’s official magazine. As a proud alumnus of Dong-ah Institute of Media and Arts Department of K-pop, he reminisced about his college days. He also talked about his journey to stardom, and his aspirations for the future.

“I’ve wrapped up the activities for our debut album YOUTH IN THE SHADE and am preparing for our second mini-album,” Hanbin shared. His recent stint as an MC for Mnet’s M Countdown has been a dream come true, a role he had aspired to since his trainee days.

Reflecting on his debut with ZEROBASEONE in July, Hanbin expressed immense pride. “I worked really hard with the goal of debuting. Now, it feels like I’ve finally reaped the fruits of my labor,” he said.

Hanbin‘s participation in Mnet’s survival program Boys Planet, where he clinched second place, was a pivotal moment in his career. His performance of “Hot Summer” during the finals remains etched in his memory, marking the day he felt an overwhelming outpour of love from fans.

Sung Hanbin encouraged his juniors

He picked the school because of his passion for music and the class structure of the college. Hanbin choreographed a K-pop song for his college entrance exam. He confidently told the department head, “I’ll see you in March after enrolling!”

Balancing schoolwork with trainee life was very challenging. When asked about his inspiration to become a singer, Hanbin credited performances he watched in elementary school. The unwavering belief in himself and the guidance of wise mentors propelled him towards his dream. In challenging times, he seeks solace in familiar surroundings or indulges in chocolate for a quick pick-me-up.

Touting his “tutting” skills as his unique charm, Hanbin described it as a dance that uses one’s hands and arms to create movements in right angles and straight lines. “It’s appealing on screen,” he added.

For Hanbin, the Dong-ah Institute of Media and Arts symbolizes burning passion and youth. As he gears up for his group’s second mini-album, Sung Hanbin urges his dongsaengs to stay the course, no matter how hard things get. “Believe in yourself and work hard. I’ll always support you. Fighting!” he said. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The interview was long, with many quotable quotes from Hanbin. Source: X/@roseslation.

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RIIZE to Make Music Comeback with ‘Talk Saxy’ on October 27

SM Entertainment’s latest boy group, RIIZE, is gearing up for a musical comeback. The agency announced on the 23rd that RIIZE‘s new single “Talk Saxy” will drop on various music platforms at 6:00 PM KST on the 27th. This dance track promises to hook listeners right from the start with its catchy saxophone riff coupled with a robust 808 drum sound. The lyrics candidly and confidently express interest in a stranger.

RIIZE has carved a niche for themselves by introducing the “emotional pop” genre, channeling a spectrum of emotions through their music. Their previous tracks, the refreshing “Memories” and the funky “Get A Guitar,” have set the stage for high expectations for “Talk Saxy.”

Staying true to their theme of musical instruments, after guitars, RIIZE is now spotlighting the saxophone. This woodwind instrument, invented in 1840 by Adolphe Sax, uses a reed to produce sound. Players blow air into the mouthpiece, causing the reed to vibrate. The saxophone, with its approximately 22 keys, has been a staple in various music genres, from classical to jazz. Notable saxophonists include Marcel Mule, John Coltrane, and Charlie Parker.

RIIZE has a cool new look

Teaser photos and videos for “Talk Saxy” were unveiled on RIIZE‘s official SNS accounts at midnight on the 23rd. The visuals of the seven members in their stylish uniforms, combined with snippets of the song and its choreography, amplified fans’ excitement. 

When RIIZE debuted, some said the members’ weird hairstyles detracted from their natural good looks. But if the teasers for “Talk Saxy” are any indication, it seems the group’s stylists took this feedback to heart. They gave the members a new look, and fans love it!

RIIZE made a significant impact with their debut single album, Get a Guitar, released on September 4. They became million-sellers in just one week after debut, and landed high-profile collaborations to boot. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The members’ styling is better this time around. Source: X/@RIIZE_official.

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