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SISTAR19 Hypes Upcoming Comeback with New Logo

SISTAR19 has officially announced their return to the music scene this January. Not surprisingly, anticipation is soaring as Bora and Hyolyn released a new version of their logo ahead of their upcoming comeback.

SISTAR19 Tease Upcoming Comeback in January 2024

The logo, designed in black and white, features the group name “SISTAR19” and exudes a fresh yet intense vibe, leaving fans curious about the nature of their comeback and the transformations that may unfold.

After an 11-year hiatus, SISTAR19 is gearing up for a significant comeback, aiming to reaffirm their status as a legendary unit in the K-pop scene. The group, formed by Hyolyn and Bora from the original girl group SISTAR, debuted in 2010 and surprised fans last month with the announcement of their official return.

Bora and Hyolyn Make Surprise Public Appearance Ahead of Upcoming Comeback

In a delightful surprise for fans, a two-shot photo of Hyolyn and Bora was unveiled on social media, further fueling excitement for their return. The photo was taken during Hyolyn’s solo concert ‘2023 Hyolyn Show One Night Only’ held on the 9th, where Bora made an unexpected guest appearance. Bora not only congratulated Hyolyn on her concert and birthday but also playfully teased a snippet of SISTAR19’s hit track ‘Ma Boy,’ eliciting cheers from the audience.

As they make their comeback, SISTAR19 promises a complete upgrade in every aspect, presenting a stylish song and showcasing their unique team color. With their new logo unveiled and sequential promotions in the pipeline, SISTAR19 is also set to captivate fans with high-quality music and the undeniable charm of its individual members after an extended hiatus from the music scene.

For now, SISTAR19’s comeback date has not yet been officially announced. However, Hyolyn and Bora are already expected to drop new music in January 2024. Stay tuned for more updates on this story.

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‘Boys Planet’ Contestant Ollie Finally Discusses Arm Injury During Show’s Filming

Ollie is finally opening up about a curious mystery. The former “Boys Planet” contestant has addressed the cast he was wearing during the show. As it turns out, the young trainee suffered an arm injury during filming but Mnet staff ignored his pleas for help!

Former ‘Boys Planet’ Contestant Ollie Addresses Shocking Arm Injury

Ollie, a former contestant on “Boys Planet” and a trainee under Yuehua Entertainment, recently shed light on the mistreatment he endured during his time on the show, sparking outrage among fans. Ollie’s revelation came during a Weibo live stream where he addressed questions from fans, and one inquiry focused on the cast he wore on his left hand during “Boys Planet”.

According to Ollie, the injury occurred during the show’s field day when he landed incorrectly while participating in one of the games. Despite experiencing considerable pain, Ollie informed the production staff about his condition. Shockingly, the staff advised him to wait until filming concluded before seeking medical attention. Unable to endure the pain, Ollie eventually took matters into his own hands and sought help from an ambulance.

“Right, I have never told you why I was in a cast,” he said. “It was during a sports meet, there was a game where you had to pull people onto a mat. I was being pulled. It was Jiwoong-hyung, right? He was pulling my leg, and I was falling backwards, so when he exerted his strength…I was lying down like this, and my leg got pulled up like this…and landed on my fingers.”

“I was in so much pain, so I told them, ‘I’m in a lot of pain, I want to go to the hospital,'” Ollie continued. “They were like, ‘It’s okay, it’s okay, take a break first and wait until the end of filming.’ I told them I have a bone fracture. They said ‘It’s okay, it’s okay, it’s okay.’ I was in so much pain. My hand felt like they were throbbing, like it was popping dancing. In the end, I said I couldn’t take it anymore and went to the ambulance myself.”

The revelation has stirred strong reactions from fans, particularly given Ollie’s age at the time of the incident – a mere 16 years old. The mistreatment of a minor on a popular survival show has ignited anger and disappointment among viewers, with many directing their frustration towards Mnet, the network responsible for “Boys Planet”.

Ollie’s willingness to share his experience sheds light on the harsh realities faced by contestants behind the scenes of such reality shows. The incident raises concerns about the prioritization of contestants’ well-being and the responsibility of production staff to ensure their safety, especially when dealing with young participants. The controversy surrounding Ollie’s mistreatment on “Boys Planet” highlights the need for greater transparency and ethical practices within the entertainment industry, urging networks and production teams to prioritize the welfare of their participants.

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BTS’ RM Bids Farewell to Fans in a Heartfelt Letter Prior to Military Service

BTS' RM poses for his solo album 'Indigo.' Credit: Facebook/BTS

Ahead of his impending military enlistment, RM from BTS has conveyed a heartfelt message to his fans. On Sunday, December 10, the leader took to Weverse to share a touching letter expressing his sentiments with ARMY.

Initially, the rapper revealed that he wanted to convey a lot to his fans. But as he’s writing the letter, he’s struggling to find the right words to express his thoughts. “I feel like there were so many things I wanted to say to you. But now that it’s here, I can’t seem to find the right words,” he wrote, according to a translation by Soompi. 

RM, or Kim Nam-joon in real life, also looked back at his idol journey, saying that the past decade as a member of BTS has been an immense source of joy for him. “I have faith and I have no doubt that after this passes, new good things will be waiting for us,” he told fans. 

As he starts talking about the military, the BTS leader also acknowledged how hard it must have been for members Seokjin and Hoseok, who enlisted ahead of the rest of the group. Although his realization may come belatedly, RM complimented how his older members faced those difficult challenges. “But seeing them gallantly doing such a great job gives me unparalleled courage,” he said. 

RM assures ARMY 

As military services, in general, can be an uncertain time for both artists and fans, the “Wild Flower”  singer implored to find inspiration instead in the new and unfamiliar circumstances. “Though I’m scared and fearful as well, what could be more comforting than the fact that there is something to anticipate and look forward to during this uncertain time,” he said. 

And the BTS leader declared that it’s the fans’ love who will help him navigate this unfamiliar situation. “Even though there may be times when I feel lonely and melancholy, I think I already feel replete inside with that love,” he said. Additionally, he also hopes that he’ll be able to reciprocate that love by being a constant presence for his supporters. 

Furthermore, instead of parting words, RM said that it’s the “time and love and sincerity” shared between BTS and ARMY that will shape their future. “I wanted to be someone who is always by your side, even when I’m not by your side,” he shared. 

“This goodbye is just a goodbye for a little while. When I return, I will say hello again as I greet you,” he ended the post. “Whenever and wherever we are, here’s hoping that we will be us. Let’s meet in the future. I love you a lot.” 

Will wait for you in 2025, BTS! 

Together with Jimin, V, and Jungkook, they’re the only remaining members of the K-pop powerhouse who have yet to fulfill their respective military service. Earlier enlistments saw Jin, the oldest member, start his enlistment in December 2022. Then, he’s followed by j-hope in April 2023 and Suga in September 2023. 

In November, BigHit Music announced that the four remaining members have already initiated the military enlistment process.

Consequently, BigHit Music also didn’t disclose the enlistment dates and sites of the members. Although there are reports from South Korean media outlets that RM and V will enlist on December 11, while Jimin and Jungkook will follow on December 12. 

With all the BTS members enlisting before 2023 ends, there’s a high possibility that all seven will have finished their services by 2025. In a previous livestream, RM assured fans that the group will “be back for sure” in 2025.

In September 2023, all seven members of BTS renewed their contract with BIGHIT Music for the second time.

Featured image: BTS’ RM poses for his solo album ‘Indigo.’ Credit: Facebook/BTS

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JYP Entertainment to Hold Open Auditions in Five Korean Cities

JYP Entertainment, a leading K-pop agency known for producing world-renowned artists like ITZY, NMIXX, Stray Kids, and TWICE, is gearing up for its 18th official annual audition. Set to take place across five cities in Korea next January, these auditions follow the agency’s successful 17th public audition in January 2023 and the JYP THE NEXT WAVE audition in August.

X/thejypnews

The auditions will begin in Daejeon on January 13, followed by stops in Gwangju on January 14, Busan on January 20 and Daegu on January 21. It will end in Seoul from January 27-28. Successful candidates from the final round will receive trainee contracts at the agency.

A trainee contract generally lasts between two to four years. This contract doesn’t guarantee a debut. It simply means the company accepted the person into its training program. Trainees undergo rigorous training in various disciplines such as acting, dance, language, and singing. As if that wasn’t tough enough, they have to compete with each other for a chance to debut.

Which JYP artists went to the open auditions?

Several artists from JYP Entertainment found fame through the agency’s open auditions. These include Wooyoung of 2PM, Seungmin of Stray Kids, Nayeon and Jeongyeon of TWICE, and Jungsu of Xdinary Heroes. Nayeon joined the agency after placing second out of 30,000 applicants in the 2010 JYP 7th open audition, and Jeongyeon was discovered in the 6th Open Audition. The open auditions played a crucial role in shaping their careers. They provided a platform where their talents could be recognized and nurtured.

[PREDEBUT] Stray Kids – Kim Seungmin | JYP 13th Audition

“The application rate for the 17th open audition earlier this year, the first in three years, surged by approximately 40 percent compared to the 16th audition. Encouraged by the success of the 17th audition, we anticipate an even greater response for the upcoming 18th public audition,” the agency noted in an official press release. 

Prospective talents can submit their applications through the official JYP audition site. Eligible candidates are those born between 2006 and 2014. They may showcase their skills in one of five categories: acting, dance, model, rap, or vocal. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: The agency expects a very good turnout for the upcoming auditions. Source: X/@thejypnews.

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Look: Lee Sung Kyoung to Release Solo Single

YG Entertainment shares a teaser of Lee Sung Kyoung's single. Credit: Twitter/YG Entertainment

Renowned for her memorable roles in dramas like Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok Joo and Shooting Stars, South Korean actress Lee Sung Kyoung is now making headlines for her solo music debut. 

Since December 4, YG Entertainment has been releasing posters and teasers for the actress’ upcoming single titled Eat Sleep Live Repeat. Moreover, the agency said that the special release will showcase a new side of Sung Kyoung as an artist. 

“You’ll be able to see not only Lee Sung Kyoung’s unique depth of emotion, but also her unlimited potential as a multi-talented entertainer,” YG Entertainment said. “Please look forward to the new content that will be revealed.” 

Although no other details have been provided yet, fans are already looking forward to the artist’s new release. Prior to the upcoming single, Sung Kyoung has already showcased her vocal prowess through various drama OSTs. 

Some of her collaborations include “My Lips Like Warm Coffee” with Eddy Kim, “I Love You” with The Papers, and “Love” with Loco. Meanwhile, she sang OSTs for projects Trolls, About Times, and Miss & Mrs. 

Furthermore, fans are also eager to listen to the new song as the title itself promises to feature simple and uncomplicated matters in life.  Thankfully, fans won’t have to wait any longer as Eat Sleep Live Repeat is set for a December 13 release. 

A new side of Lee Sung Kyoung 

She started her modeling career in 2008 after competing in the local SuperModel contest. Since then, she has become a familiar face for fashion and luxury brands. Notably, she’s one of the first female models that got signed by YGK-Plus, a collaboration between YG Entertainment and K-Plus. 

As for acting, her journey took off with a supporting role in the popular series It’s Okay, That’s Love and Cheese in the Trap. From then, she continued to evolve as a versatile actress. Among her other notable works include Dr. Romantic 2 and Call It Love. 

Since she’s known for her ability to connect with audiences through versatile character portrayals, her upcoming single is also expected to captivate listeners. As she continues to diversify her career, fans eagerly anticipate the experiences that Sung Kyoung has to offer. 

Featured image: YG Entertainment shares a teaser of Lee Sung Kyoung’s single. Credit: Twitter/YG Entertainment

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Watch: NCT U Releases New Song ‘Marine Turtle’

Kun, Chenle, Xiaojun, and Renjun collaborate for 'Marine Turtle.' Credit: Twitter/NCT

NCT U, a subdivision of the larger NCT group, released their latest single, “Marine Turtle” on Wednesday, December 6. 

It served as the nine release in SM Entertainment’s innovative NCT LAB initiative. 

Moreover, the collaborative efforts within the NCT LAB continues as WayV‘s Kun and Xiaojun teaming up with NCT Dream’s Renjun and Chenle for “Marine Turtle.” 

Both in the teaser photos and music video, the members were seen posing at the beach. The song, available in both Chinese and Korean, falls under the pop genre, blending a guiding synth melody and emotive vocal harmonies. 

Furthermore, the lyrics draw a poignant analogy, comparing the determination to forge ahead in life to a marine turtle hatching from its egg and embarking on a journey into the sea.

Notably, Chenle  also played a role in its composition, showcasing the multifaceted musical abilities of NCT members. Additionally, fellow NCT member Mark also lent his talents to the lyric-writing process.

‘Marine Turtle’ as part of NCT LAB releases

For those unfamiliar, NCT LAB is a SM Station series allowing NCT members to release their self-composed solo and unit tracks outside of regular NCT albums. In January 2022, the project was first announced, with Mark kicking it off with his solo release “Child.” 

Meanwhile, its first unit song “coNEXTion (Age of Light)” was sung by members Doyoung, Mark, and Haechan. Notably, the song also featured a performance by Shotaro, who is now a member of RIIZE.  Then, it was followed by another unit song “Rainy Day,” which was performed by Kun, Taeil, and Yangyang. 

For the rest of 2022, NCT LAB released two more tracks: Jaehyun’s “Forever Only” and Ten’s “Birthday.” 

In 2023, Mark and Jaehyun both released their second NCT Lab solo tracks. Meanwhile, Taeil and Haechan also released their duet track “N.C.Y.T.”

With “Marine Turtle” as the latest release, there will already be nine songs under NCT LAB. 

Currently, SM Entertainment has yet to announce their next NCT LAB song to be released. But it was earlier teased that Kun also has a solo track under the lineup. 

Which other NCT member would you want to see release a NCT LAB song next?

Featured image: Kun, Chenle, Xiaojun, and Renjun collaborate for ‘Marine Turtle.’ Credit: Twitter/NCT

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SEVENTEEN Gets Emotional After Winning Their First Daesang at the Mama Awards

The group poses with their trophies after the MAMA Awards 2023. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

SEVENTEEN achieved a significant milestone at the 2023 MAMA Awards, clinching their first Daesang for Album of the Year with their 10th mini-album, FML.

Notably, it was the act’s third accolade from the award-giving body as they already triumphed in the Best Male Group and Best Dance Performance Male Group categories.

Furthermore, the impact of SEVENTEEN‘s win extended beyond their stellar performance, resonating deeply with fans, industry figures, and netizens alike. Actress Uhm Jung Hwa, who announced the final award of the night, couldn’t contain her emotions as she revealed the group’s well-deserved win for FML. “It’s finally them, everyone. It’s finally them,” she said, echoing the sentiments of devoted CARATs worldwide.

Notably, leader S.Coups, who had been on hiatus due to an injury since August, made a surprise appearance during the MAMA Awards. Such appearance, as well as all the members doing a group hug, intensified the emotional atmosphere.

SEVENTEEN members expressed their gratitude

In each members’ heartfelt speeches, they reminisced how their journey started from humble beginnings. In particular, Hoshi recalled how they weren’t able to take home any win during their first MAMA Awards appearance. But their daesang win has proven their monumental progress as they walked away with the grand prize nine years later. 

Meanwhile member DK admitted that he never even dreamt of receiving such a prestigious award in his life. “All 13 of us worked so hard until here and we’re going to continue doing so,” he said. 

Throughout the almost 10 minute speech, the members also visibly appeared to be holding back tears as they expressed their gratitude to fans and industry peers. 

Even Woozi, the group’s songwriter and producer, couldn’t contain his emotions as he looked back at their rough start. “Our group had a lot of fingers pointed at us at the beginning – that we won’t make it, that there’s too many of us so it won’t work. But it’s been over 10 years since I’ve been making music for SEVENTEEN. Now that it’s the 10th/11th year, I really thank CARATs for rewarding us with this moment,” he said. 

As the last speaker, Seungkwan also made sure to extend appreciation to fellow artists in the industry. “Whether or not you received an award, this job isn’t easy. But I hope we can keep supporting each other going forward,” he said. 

In a touching moment, Seungkwan remembered Moonbin, a close friend and supporter of SEVENTEEN. The ASTRO member passed away in April 2023 at the age of 25. “Thank you to my friend Binnie who has always loved and supported our team,” he added. 

Following the group’s win, many of their fans worldwide took to social media to commend SEVENTEEN for their touching speeches. 

Featured image: The group poses with their trophies after the MAMA Awards 2023. Credit: Twitter/SEVENTEEN

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These Are the K-Pop Songs That Made It to Rolling Stone’s ‘Best Songs of 2023’

NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season's Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

Several K-pop tracks have earned a place on Rolling Stone‘s prestigious list of “Best Songs of 2023,” underscoring the genre’s growing influence on the global music scene.

Of particular significance is NewJeans‘ exceptional achievement as the sole K-pop group featured in both the “Best Albums of 2023” and “Best Songs of 2023” categories by Rolling Stone. 

On December 1, the authoritative music media outlet unveiled its highly-anticipated list for “The 100 Best Songs of 2023.” For the first time, a total of nine K-pop releases were featured in the list. 

NewJeans‘ pre-released track and title song, “Super Shy,“ from their 2nd mini-album Get Up, secured an impressive 6th position. Notably this marked the highest-ranking K-pop song on the list. According to Rolling Stone, the particular track was a “breakthrough” for the girl group. “The song is one of the purest pop thrills of the year, with a dreamy melody,” they added. “In true K-pop fashion, the accompanying music video is just as captivating.” 

Prior to this ranking, NewJeans’ Get Up also secured the 33rd position in Rolling Stones “The 100 Best Album of 2023.” 

Other K-pop songs that made it to Rolling Stone’s list

Meanwhile, SEVENTEEN‘s “Super” claimed the 47th position. The title track from their 10th mini-album FML is the second-highest among K-pop songs. In their list, Rolling Stone praised the group’s inspiration drawn from Chinese mythological creature Sun Wukong. As well as using this as a metaphor for their impressive growth in their eight-year journey. 

Next K-pop songs that made it to the list are TWICE’s pre-released English single “Moonlight Sunrise,” from their 12th mini-album Ready to Be, which secured the 55th spot. 

Meanwhile, V of BTS earned the 58th position with his pre-released track “Rainy Days” from his first solo album Layover. With this, Min Hee-jin, the producer of NewJeans and CEO of Ador, is the only Korean producer with two songs on the chart. To note, she also helped produce V’s solo debut album. 

Other K-pop songs on the list include BLACKPINK Jisoo’s solo debut song “Flower” at 67th spot and FIFTY FIFTY’s viral song “Cupid“ at the 75th spot. Also part of the roundup are XG at 77th with their title track “Left Right” from their third single Shooting Star. 

Placing 95 and 99, respectively, are aespa’s “Spicy” and BTS Jungkook’s “Seven” feat. Latto. 

How do you feel about this ranking? Should there be more K-pop songs included in the list? 

Featured image: NewJeans poses for their 2024 Season’s Greetings. Credit: Twitter/NewJeans

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YG Entertainment to Hold Nationwide Auditions in 2024

BABYMONSTER makes their debut with 'Batter Up.' Credit: Twitter/BABYMONSTER

Dreaming of becoming labelmates with your favorite K-pop groups BLACKPINK and TREASURE? Well, your chance is here as YG Entertainment has officially announced the 2024 YG NATIONAL AUDITION TOUR. 

The large-scale audition tour is scheduled to kick off on January 13, 2024, and run until February 18, 2024. It will span across eight cities, including Jeju, Gwangju, Jeonju, Busan, Daegu, Daejeon, Wonju, and Seoul. 

The audition welcomes young participants residing in South Korea that are born between 2006 and 2013. Additionally, there are no gender or nationality requirements. Notably, interested applicants can choose among four categories:  singing, rapping, dancing, and visual. 

As for the audition process, it will involve both pre-registration and on-site registration. Aspiring participants can pre-register by accessing the QR code on the official poster and submitting the Google Form application form 10 days prior to the audition date in each region. Meanwhile, the on-site registration is also available until 4 PM on the audition day.

What’s next for YG Entertainment?

As one of the biggest management labels in the K-pop industry, the audition tour is already gaining significant interest. Especially since YG Entertainment appears to be keen in looking for talents that could follow the footsteps of their iconic groups such as BIGBANG and 2NE1. 

However, the sudden announcement also caught some confusion among the netizens as it came after the recent debut of BABYMONSTER. Furthermore, the agency has earlier confirmed that the rookie idol girl group won’t be participating in music shows to promote their debut single “Batter Up.” Because of that, fans are lamenting that the agency should focus first on prioritizing their newest act instead of looking for more potential artists. 

Aside from that, the past two years have also seen the departure of several artists from YG Entertainment. Between 2022 and 2023, BIGBANG members Daesung, Taeyang, and G-Dragon, as well as the group iKON have left the agency. 

Currently, YG Entertainment is home to acts AKMU, Sechkies, WINNER, BLACKPINK, and TREASURE. Recently, the label confirmed that all four members of BLACKPINK have renewed their contracts for group activities. 

Featured image: BABYMONSTER makes their debut with ‘Batter Up.’ Credit: Twitter/BABYMONSTER

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ENHYPEN’s Leader Jungwon Praised for His Dedication to ENGENEs

ENHYPEN‘s Jungwon recently became the center of attention after a community post lauding his dedication to fans went viral. The post in question was viewed over 72,000 times in just a few hours. Known for his stage presence, exceptional vocals, and charming visuals, Jungwon is now being praised for something entirely different. 

Jungwon’s June 2023 updates. Source: Nate Pann

A fan pointed out that since June, Jungwon has been consistently supplying fans with new content every single day. Fans have even created update charts to track his daily interactions, filled with various selfies and photos shared across social media platforms. You can check out two of them here. See how he updated fans every day in June? Jungwon did the same thing every month after that, all the way through to November.

This regular engagement has left fans feeling well-fed with his daily selfies or comments and posts on Weverse. From June to November 2023, Jungwon has been checking in every single day without fail, a stark contrast to some idols who barely update once a month. His commitment to keeping ENGENEs informed and connected has earned him the title of a “legendarily filial idol” among netizens, a term that combines the extraordinary nature of his actions (“legendary”) with the care and attention akin to a familial relationship (“filial”).

@yjwon.lover

jungwon is an epitome of what truly consistent is. i love every version of him, but his consistency is my favorite that i can no longer end my day without his update. 🥺💖 #JUNGWON #ENHYPEN #fyp

♬ The Most Beautiful Thing – Live Acoustic Version – Sonja Midtune

Netizens talk about Jungwon

Netizens have expressed their admiration for Jungwon‘s dedication. One fan commented, “FR, Kitty Jungwon will go down in the idol industry as a legendarily filial idol. Even though other members often do individual live streams, Jungwon is the most active on the playback page.” 

Jungwon’s November 2023 updates. Source: Nate Pann

Another netizen added, “He’s so impressive… But is communicating with fans such a hard thing? You can just invest five to ten minutes… I don’t get the idols who don’t.” Yet another netizen said, “He’s the idol out of all that I’ve liked so far, that works the hardest to communicate and takes care of fans the best.”

Jungwon‘s dedication to his fans truly sets him apart as an idol who not only excels in his career but also in his commitment to his fans. – K-Pop News Writer

Featured Image: It couldn’t have been easy for Jungwon to do this, given his packed schedule, so he deserves every bit of praise he got for pulling this off! Source: X/@archiveofyjgw.

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